October 3, 2023. 3 - 4 PM
This webinar will share about the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Work Incentives available to people with disabilities who are receiving Social Security Disability Benefits. It will also include information for Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs on how to help students and their families understand how people with disabilities can protect their benefits while working and connect to Work Incentive Planning Assistance.
Session Learning Outcomes:
January 24, 2024 - January 26, 2024. Orlando, FL.
The MidYear Progress Update Institute is a follow-up to the Florida Postsecondary Education Program Planning Institute held in July 2023. The Institute provides approved Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTPs) an opportunity to review, update, and evaluate their annual strategic plans.
The MidYear Progress Update Institute will be held January 24-26, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando East-UCF Area.
Registration will open October 15
July 8, 2024 - July 10, 2024. Orlando, FL.
The purpose of this FLPEPPI is to increase understanding of resources available for and facilitate the planning and implementation of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTP) for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions: universities, state and community colleges, and career tech centers/ technical colleges.
The institute will provide content knowledge for developing or enhancing these programs, facilitate planning time for interdisciplinary postsecondary education teams, and provide opportunities to network with approved FPCTP leaders and others with expertise in this area.
This is a team-focused event for postsecondary education program planning teams. These teams should include higher education faculty and staff, disability service providers, special population coordinators, K-12 transition staff, parents, students, and other relevant stakeholders. A critical feature of the FLPEPPI is providing teams with facilitated meeting times to develop an FPCTP or enhance their current program’s performance?using our online Strategic Planning Tool – Postsecondary component.
August 2023 FCSUA News Brief
In the August edition of FCSUA's News Brief...
Special Edition Newsbrief: 2023 Graduation
Graduation is a momentous occasion, a time to celebrate and recognize students' hard work, dedication, and commitment to achieve their goals. Through Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs, students have earned a meaningful credential and are ready to pursue their careers. Graduation marks a major milestone in a person's life; it's the completion of one stage and the start of a new adventure. We look forward to seeing graduates flourish in their career!
April/May 2023 FCSUA News Brief
In this issue of FCSUA's News Brief...
February 2023 FCSUA News Brief
In this issue of FCSUA's News Brief...
September 5, 2023. 3 - 4 PM
Session Learning Outcomes:
Downloads:
July 10, 2023 - July 12, 2023. Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, Orlando FL
The purpose of this FLPEPPI is to increase understanding of resources available for and facilitate the planning and implementation of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTP) for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions: universities, state and community colleges, and career tech centers/ technical colleges. The institute will provide the following:
Downloads:
May 2, 2023. 3 - 4 PM
The standard practice focuses on the individual as the primary stakeholder of a person with a disability moving into employment. This practice, in theory, makes sense. Everyone has their own unique strengths, weaknesses, and career aspirations. You focus on what is right in front of you, the person. A slight shift to focusing on the employer, creating trust and a deeper relationship, will ultimately lead to more individuals becoming employed. Employers have strengths and weaknesses too. The difference is time spent on employer relations results in more people becoming employed, as opposed to time spent on the individual.
Session Learning Outcomes:
Downloads:
Shifting Your Perspective_Become Employer Centric_Handout.pdf
April 4, 2023. 3 - 4 PM
This webinar will be a discussion of the innovative practices and findings from recent Florida Developmental Disabilities Council initiatives, with an emphasis on postsecondary, employment, transition, and transportation projects and how they can benefit students attending Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTPs).
Participants will learn:
Downloads:
FCSUA April Webinar FDDC_Innovative Practices and Findings Handout.pdf
March 7, 2023. 3 - 4 PM
During this webinar, participants will learn strategies to be successful in collecting student follow-up data for students who have completed the program for the last five years. Participants will learn:
Downloads:
FCSUAMarch2023WebinarStrategiesForCompletingStudentReports.pdf
February 7, 2023. 3 - 4 PM
You will learn how Think College’s two National Centers, the National Coordinating Center and the Inclusive Higher Education Network, can support you as program personnel. This session will cover current and future activities of the Centers, including regional alliance development and expansion, increasing opportunities for access to career and Technical Education (CTE), technical assistance available, information on a national public awareness campaign on inclusive postsecondary education, and conducting and translating research to inform practice, and much more. Information about the Southeast Postsecondary Education Alliance (SEPSEA) will also be shared to inform participants of the benefits of engaging with their regional alliance.
Presenters:
Downloads:
January 25, 2023 - January 27, 2023. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando East-UCF Area
The MidYear Progress Update Institute is a follow-up to the Florida Postsecondary Education Program Planning Institute held in July 2022. The Institute provides approved Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTPs) an opportunity to review, update, and evaluate their annual strategic plans.
Professional development and technical assistance will focus on critical topics such as Employment, Technical Soundness, FCSUA Community – Program and Student Information, Scholarships, and Credentials.
FPCTP team leaders and the team members responsible for entering reports in the FCSUA Community should attend. (A maximum of three participants from each FPCTP).
The MidYear Progress Update Institute will be held January 25-27, 2023, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando East-UCF Area.
Downloads:
January 10, 2023. 3 - 4 PM
This webinar will provide helpful information about how to build inclusive campuses. The University of Central Florida (UCF) will discuss innovative practices enabling students' maximal participation in campus activities, including classes, clubs, social events, and work experiences. Through partnerships with volunteer organizations and various colleges on campus, UCF has developed a program enabling inclusivity, self-advocacy, and executive functioning skills necessary to open doors across campus.
Learning Objectives:
Downloads:
Building Inclusive Communities FCSUA January 2023 Monthly Webinar.pdf
December 6, 2022. 3 - 4 PM
This webinar provides helpful information about the application and eligibility requirements for APD services, placement on the agency’s waiting list for iBudget Waiver services, employment initiatives, and supports available to help APD clients live and work in their communities.
Presenters:
Downloads:
November 1, 2022. 3 - 4 PM
Florida’s unemployment rate — 2.7 percent in August — is leading among the nation’s largest states. Meanwhile, Florida continues to have more advertised job openings than Floridians actively looking for work. With a growing economy, “help wanted” and “now hiring” signs abound. So, what are employers looking for to fill their openings, and what trends are shaping the current job market and influencing the future of work? In what ways can Florida better prepare an undertapped labor pool — Floridians with disabilities and particularly students with unique abilities — to be job ready with skills valued by hiring employers? Join a conversation with leaders from the CareerSource Florida network to learn more about how to help students in Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs transition from college to careers.
Presenters: Michelle Dennard, President and CEO of CareerSource Florida
Downloads:
October 4, 2022. 3 - 4 PM
During this webinar, the UMatter team will share their process for selecting credentials, including industry certifications, to set up their students for sustainable careers in their fields of choice. Considerations and processes for the credentials selected will be shared. Objectives: After this webinar, participants will be able to: identify industry-recognized credentials available; examine credentials of interest to determine the best credentials for their students and IHE; develop a plan for expanding meaningful credential offerings at their FPCTP.
Presenters: Dr. Lyman Dukes, Dr. Jayme Joslyn, Mike Muldoon and Kaitlyn Hruska from USF UMatter FPCTP
Downloads:
Opening Doors For People With Intellectual Disabilities To Attain Meaningful Credentials.pdf
September 6, 2022. 3 - 4 PM
During this webinar, Dr. Janice Seabrooks-Blackmore and Dr. Drew Andrews reviewing:
Downloads:
July 11, 2022 - July 15, 2022. Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
1 Grand Cypress Blvd, Orlando, FL, 32836
The purpose of this FLPEPPI is to increase understanding of resources available for and facilitate the planning and implementation of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTP) for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions: universities, state and community colleges, and career tech centers/ technical colleges. The institute will provide the following:
Downloads:
April 5, 2022. 3 - 4 PM
This presentation explains the alternatives to guardianship, including supported decision-making, legal directives, and guardian advocacy. Attorney Davey will explain the pros and cons of each choice and offer advice to families on choosing the solution that is right for them.
Presenter: Catherine E. Davey, J.D., LL.M. Counselor at Law, Davey Law Group
Downloads:
March 1, 2022. 3 - 4 PM
Employment outcomes are a primary goal of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs. Project SAINT (Student Access and INclusion Together) will describe its approach to job placement including job development, internships, certifications, and class instruction.
Presenters: Linda Musillo and Beverly Stoutamire
Downloads:
March Webinar Successful Approaches to Employment Outcomes.pdf
February 8, 2022. 3 - 4 PM
This webinar will review what makes a technically sound plan and report on strengths and areas of improvement in the 2022 FPCTP Strategic Plans. Join us to learn how to update your program’s strategic plan to meet your goals by June 2022. Attendees will also be provided the opportunity to review their technical soundness reports, ask questions, and update their current strategic plans.
Presenters: Alycia Sterenberg
Downloads:
Review and Update of FPCTP Technical Soundness Report of 2022 Strategic Plans.pdf
January 11, 2022. 3 - 4 PM
Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs offer new higher education opportunities to students with intellectual disabilities. This presentation focuses on the steps used to develop a FPCTP at a technical college and complete the FPCTP Grant Proposal.
Presenters: Jon Williams and Shelly Bell
Downloads:
Developing a Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program Grant Proposal(rev).pdf
December 7, 2021. 3:00 - 4:00 PM
FPCTPs offer new higher education opportunities to students with intellectual disabilities. This presentation focuses on navigating the eligibility, admissions, and common approaches for student enrollment. Participants will be able to differentiate between entitlement- and eligibility-based programs, explain both Think College and Florida legislation guidance regarding eligibility, and identify strategies to determine student eligibility and admissions into FPCTPs. Factors for new programs to consider as they design eligibility requirements will also be discussed.
Presenters: Amanda Warren and Douglas Carothers
Downloads:
November 16, 2021 - November 19, 2021. Virtual
The purpose of this FLPEPPI is to increase understanding of resources available for and facilitate planning and implementation of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTP) for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions: universities, state and community colleges, and career tech centers/ technical colleges. The institute will provide the following:
Downloads:
November 9, 2021. 3:00- 4:30
The Virtual Overview webinar helps prepare all participants for what to expect during the FLPEPPI. An overview of the Institute, particularly in its virtual nature, will be shared. An introduction and overview of the Strategic Planning Tool, which is the tool each institution will use for team planning will also be shared. Additionally, participants will be encouraged to become familiar with and to visit Whova, our virtual hosting platform, to explore resources that can help them be fully engaged in the Institute as they develop and/or enhance their FPCTP.
October 5, 2021. 3:00 - 4:00 PM
Strategies used to recruit students for the Grow Your Future programs at McFatter and Sheridan Technical Colleges will be discussed.
Presenters: Christi Dingman and Christine Lamb
Downloads:
Seven Recruitment Strategies That Will Boost FPCTP Participation v2.pdf
September 7, 2021.
This webinar is for approved FPCTPs. The focus of this webinar is a review of the latest changes related to submissions and reporting in the FCSUA Community. Program Directors and other FPCTP staff are asked to join us in this webinar to provide feedback and get clarification on processes needed to meet and maintain program requirements. This webinar will be particularly helpful to programs that have new staff and role changes
June 15, 2021 - June. 18, 2021. Virtual Event
The MidYear Institute is a follow-up to the Florida Postsecondary Education Program Planning Institute held in November 2020. This Institute is a mid-year progress update on annual program plans of approved Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTPs) and institutions of higher education (IHE) seeking to become approved programs. Professional development and technical assistance are provided to teams to facilitate the planning and implementation of FPCTPs for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions: universities, state and community colleges, technical colleges, and career tech centers.
To increase awareness of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP) opportunities and help students with intellectual disabilities prepare for and access those opportunities across Florida, the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities (FCSUA) at UCF is partnering with secondary educators to develop and implement Florida College and Career Transition Clubs (CCT Clubs) at local schools serving high school students. The Annual CCT Club Meeting will celebrate their accomplishments and recognize their student outcomes.
Downloads:
May 11, 2021. 3 - 4 PM
Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP) Scholarship requests have moved to Salesforce! This webinar will focus on the process of submitting scholarship requests in the FCSUA Salesforce Community and its target audience is the approved FPCTPs.
Downloads:
April 27, 2021. 3:00 - 4:30 PM
Presented by Dr. Gwen Carey, faculty at FAU Academy for Community Inclusion, and Dr. Tara Rowe, Co-Director of Student Accessibility Services and THRIVE Program Director at UNF. During this webinar, Drs Carey and Rowe will be sharing their peer mentor programs and the process of obtaining the College Reading and Learning Association CRLA International Mentor Training Program Certification.
Downloads:
April 6, 2021. 3 - 4 PM
This webinar is for approved Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs only. It will focus on the process of completing and submitting Student Information of the Annual Reports in the FCSUA Salesforce Community.
Downloads:
March 2, 2021. 3 - 4 PM
Annual Reports are moving to Salesforce! This webinar is for approved Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs only. It will focus on the process of completing and submitting Program Information of the Annual Reports in the FCSUA Salesforce Community.
Downloads:
February 2, 2021. 3 - 4 PM
Presenters include Katie Norland, College of the Florida Keys Project ACCESS, and Dr. Adam Meyer, UCF IES Program. They will share insights from the lessons learned in organizing and maintaining residential options for students and discuss: (1) who to work with on campus to ensure a successful program; (2) how to make sure FPCTP students are safe; (3) the role of mentors; and (4) the application process. This webinar will benefit those who are wanting to create a residential option, or who want to increase student skills in independent living..
January 27, 2021. 4 - 6 PM
This event was free and open to all young adults with an intellectual disability, families, K12 staff, and agency staff who were interested in learning more about approved inclusive higher education opportunities across Florida.
The Virtual College Showcase consisted of video recordings from Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTP) from around the state, as well as having virtual meeting rooms to speak with many of the program representatives.
The event was live only on January 27 from 4-6 pm EST with the recordings remaining available through the year.
To watch the video recordings visit the FPCTP College Showcase page
December 8, 2020. 3 - 4 PM
This year, 2020, is the 30th anniversary of Steven Covey's famous seven habits. Habit two is "beginning with the end in mind". This habit is all about knowing your purpose and what you’re trying to achieve. Applying this thinking to the plans you've created to provide postsecondary programs for students with unique abilities, how will you know if your program was successful? What indicators will show the successful 'end' for students? What we've learned over years of providing technical assistance for capacity building is that teams who plan their evaluation at the time they are planning their program, and plan them well, are much more likely to achieve their goals and know their impact. On December 8th at 3:00 PM, Dr. Gothberg will lead the participants through planning out an evaluation of their programs, share examples, and spend time answering your questions. Come ready to learn and engage in rich conversations about evaluation.
Downloads:
Evaluation Beginning with the End in Mind.pdf
Methods of Data Collection for Program Evaluation_Gothberg2020.pdf
December 1, 2020. 3 - 4 PM
Scholarship requests are moving to Salesforce! This webinar will focus on the process of submitting scholarship requests in FCSUA Salesforce Portal.
Downloads:
November 17, 2020 - November 20, 2020.
This year’s FLPEPPI included both live and recorded: (1) Evidence-based content and strategies around targeted areas of inclusive postsecondary education and capacity building (2) Networking and extended learning opportunities (3) Facilitated team planning to assess their current strengths and needs in order to plan for the future. There is no registration fee to attend this free event hosted by the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities. This event will be hosted using Whova.
Downloads:
November 10, 2020. 3 - 4 PM
This overview helps prepare all participants for what to expect during the FLPEPPI. An overview of the Institute, particularly in it's virtual nature, will be shared. An introduction and overview of the Strategic Planning Tool, which is the tool each institution will use for team planning will also be shared. Additionally, participants will be encouraged to become familiar with and to visit Whova, our virtual hosting platform, to explore resources that can help them be fully engaged in the Institute as they develop and/or enhance their FPCTP.
Downloads:
November 2, 2020. 3:00 - 4:30 PM
This webinar provided participants with information about three FPCT Program resources: a) Strategic Planning Tool: Postsecondary education component (aka the Tool), b) FPCT Program application, and c) FPCT Program grant proposal, and how to use these resources to create a comprehensive road map from planning to implementing an inclusive postsecondary education program. The goal of this presentation is to explore two crosswalks that draw direct connections between the benchmarks in the Tool, and the FPCT Program application and Grant proposal to support programs in saving time and writing effective, evidence-based plans, applications, and grant proposals.
Downloads:
FPCTP_program planning crosswalk_application_10_19_2020.pdf
FPCTP_program planning crosswalk_grant proposal_10_19_2020.pdf
October 6, 2020. 3 - 4 PM
Whether you are planning an inclusive Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program that serves students with intellectual disabilities or just seeking to improve your services, this web-based planning system applies a framework for using data to reflect on current practice and outcomes, identify strengths and needs, and subsequently develop a plan to address needs and evaluate intended results.
Downloads:
June 24, 2020 - June. 26, 2020.
The Mid-Year Check and Connect Institute is a follow-up to the Florida Postsecondary Education Program Planning Institute held in November 2019. The purpose of this Institute is to provide professional development and technical assistance to Institutions of Higher Education (IHE) teams to facilitate planning and implementation of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTPs) for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions: universities, state and community colleges, technical colleges and career tech centers.
The Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities invited IHE teams to join us at the Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP) Virtual Mid-Year Check and Connect, June 24-26, 2020. This Virtual Mid-Year Check and Connect included both live and recorded: (1) Evidence-based content and strategies around targeted areas of inclusive postsecondary education and capacity building (2) Networking and extended learning opportunities (3) Facilitated team planning to assess their current strengths and needs in order to plan for the future. Relevant team participants included higher education faculty and staff, disability service providers, equity coordinators, K-12 transition staff, parents, students, and other important stakeholders. This was a virtual event using UCF Canvas Online.
Facilitators who worked with IHE teams during the November Institute also met with teams/representatives to either begin and or continue FPCTP planning, development, and evaluation.
Downloads:
May 5, 2020. 3 - 4 PM
This webinar focuses on submission of start-up and enhancement Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Postsecondary Program (FPCTP) grants. A review of grant funding provided by the Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program Act to new and continuing FPCTPs will be discussed, followed by a demonstration of the submission process using FCSUA’s Online Portal. Instructions and templates, related to grant proposals will also be discussed and shared.
Downloads:
April 21, 2020. 3 - 4 PM
This webinar was a follow-up to the March 3, 2020 webinar, Updates on Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program Application, and Grant Proposals. Step-by-step information will be provided on submitting applications via our FCSUA Online Portal will be reviewed, along with a demonstration of how new institutions of higher education can gain access to begin the FPCTP application process.
Downloads:
April 7, 2020. 3 - 4 PM
Dr. Deborah Reed, Associate Instructor, University of North Florida was our guest presenter. Her research interests include improving post-secondary outcomes for students with disabilities.
Downloads:
Mental Health and Wellness Webinar Presentation Materials.zip
March 3, 2020. 3 - 4 PM
This webinar was focus on updates to the FPCTP new and renewal application process, as well as updates to the FPCTP Start-Up and Enhancement Grant Proposals. We will also provide information regarding recent guidance we’ve received regarding the Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program Act that enables us to increase grant funding to support new and continuing FPCTPs. This webinar was not recorded due to technical difficulties.
Downloads:
February 4, 2020. 3 - 4 PM
February's informational webinar invited Dr. Vivian Vieta and her team at Robert Morgan Educational Center and Technical College to talk about the approved Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP) Project TOPS(Transition tO Postsecondary InstitutionS). Dr. Vieta and her team shared the beginning of the program with the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council grant, how they applied to the FPCTP Enhancement grant, received the CTP federal status, and how they reapplied to the FPCTP Enhancement grant for two additional years. They also described the programs supported by Project TOPS and how they deliver services to the students. The project has 24 total students this trimester.
Downloads:
FCSUA Webinar- Structures at RMEC&TC - February 4 2020- REV FINAL.pdf
January 7, 2020. 2:30 - 3:30 PM
As a follow up of previous webinars and a Florida Postsecondary Education Program Planning Institute workshop, January's informational webinar was about completing and submitting the International Mentor Training Program Certification documentation to the College of Reading and Learning Association. The presenter for this webinar was Michael Saenz, Assistant Director of Students Success from the University of Texas at Dallas.
December 3, 2019. 3 - 4 PM
The presenter in this webinar was Maggie Miller, the Lead Florida Trainer, MyCareerShines.
About FloridaShines
We exist to empower all of Florida's 20,000,000 residents to earn a college degree and find a bright career. Whether you're in high school just starting to think about college or you're already working and ready to earn or complete your degree, FloridaShines can help. We've got the resources and support you need.
FloridaShines works with the state's 40 colleges and universities and other partners to help you succeed in school and beyond. Check your transcript. Register for an online course. Search libraries across the state. And a whole lot more. All designed to help you shine.
FloridaShines - Florida's Student Hub of Innovative Educational Services - is a service of the Florida Virtual Campus.
Downloads:
November 6, 2019 - November 8, 2019. Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek. 14651 Chelonia Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32821
Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities is moving the Annual Florida Postsecondary Education Program Planning Institute to November 2019. The purpose of this Institute is to increase understanding of resources available for and facilitate planning and implementation of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTP) for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions: universities, state and community colleges, and career tech centers. The Pre-institute Workshop will be about FPCTP Applications and Grants Proposals. The hotel rooms block will be open until October 21 for us to book your room. Please do not wait until last minute to register! Use the link below:
Downloads:
October 1, 2019. 3 - 4 PM
The next Florida Postsecondary Education Program Planning Institute will take place on November 6 - 8, 2019. This webinar provides IHE team leaders and members an overview of the Institute format, agenda, and planning process. The webinar also focuses on using the online strategic planning tool's report features to summarize the team's progress in planning, implementing, and or improving their FPCTP. These features are helpful as the team prepares for the Fall 2019 Institute and its work during 2019 - 2020.
Downloads:
September 10, 2019. 3 - 4 PM
The online strategic planning tool is a web-based system that links research with practice to (1) build capacity and develop programs to provide K-12 transition education and services and (2) plan and implement inclusive postsecondary education programs. The postsecondary education component was launched on June 18 for use by all types of higher education institutions: Universities, state colleges, and technical colleges. Whether you are planning an inclusive postsecondary education program that serves students with intellectual disabilities or just seeking to improve your services, this planning system applies a framework for using data to reflect on current practice and outcomes, identify strengths and needs, and subsequently develop a plan to address needs and evaluate intended results.
Downloads:
June 25, 2019 - June. 28, 2019. Embassy Suites Orlando North, 225 Shorecrest Drive, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
The Midyear Check and Connect Institute was a follow-up to the Florida Postsecondary Education
Program Planning Institute held in January 2019. The purpose of this Institute was to provide
professional development and technical assistance to IHE teams to facilitate planning and
implementation of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTPs) for
students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions:
universities, state and community colleges, and career tech centers.
This year's event consisted of three components - IHE team members are welcome at and
encouraged to attend all three (see the draft agenda):
Downloads:
May 7, 2019. 3 - 4 PM
Dr. Kimberly Spence, Coordinator of Educational and Training Programs at UCF CARD - Center for Autism and Related Disabilities was the presenter of Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities monthly webinar corresponding to May. The topic: Sexuality, Personal Safety, and Sex Education for Students with Intellectual Disabilities at the Postsecondary Level.
Downloads:
April 2, 2019. 3 - 4 PM
The Summary of Performance of students exiting K-12 should support students’ success in postsecondary education. This webinar gave guidance on how the process should work and what information the document should contain. The presenters were: Dr. Jim Martin, Emeritus Professor of Ed Psychology, Retired Oklahoma University Zarrow Center Chair and Director and Dr. Gwen Williams, Associate Professor, Interim Chair, Department of Educational, Multicultural and Exceptional Studies at Jackson State University.
Downloads:
March 5, 2019. 3 - 4 PM
This webinar focused on connecting the dots while developing FPCTP curriculum. Students enrolled in FPCTPs earn specific credentials by succeeding in a defined program of study through which they develop the competencies associated with employment aligned with their career goals. Dr. Viki Kelchner, Assistant Professor and Internship Field Placement Coordinator at UCF College of Community Innovation and Education discussed how an important aspect of student success is defining and measuring the expected student learning outcomes embedded in the program of study so that students are on track to successfully complete the program. All students must demonstrate Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to receive financial aid, including the FPCTP Scholarship. Aligning expected student learning outcomes, SAP standards, and programs of study that result in meaningful employment-related credentials are fundamental steps in providing a successful FPCTP.
Downloads:
February 5, 2019. 3 - 4 PM
Dr. Mary Lou Duffy, Professor of the Department of Exceptional Student Education at FAU and Project Coordinator for ACI provided information about the program development and structure of the Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP) Academy for Community Inclusion (ACI) at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) on Jupiter Campus.
Downloads:
January 23, 2019 - January 25, 2019. B Resort and Spa - 1905 Hotel Plaza Boulevard, Lake Buena Vista, FL
The purpose of this Institute is to increase understanding of resources available for and facilitate planning and implementation of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTP) for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions: universities, state and community colleges, and career tech centers. This is a team-focused event for postsecondary education program planning teams representing a higher education institution or career tech district. Bring your team of higher education faculty and staff, disability service providers, special populations coordinators, K-12 transition staff, parents, students, and/or other relevant stakeholders.
Downloads:
January 22, 2019. 12:00 PM - 1:15 PM. UCF Teaching Academy, Room 420B
Lunch and Learn: Janice Seabrooks-Blackmore is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Exceptional, Deaf, and Interpreter Education at the University of North Florida. Janice has served in various leadership roles within the department and college and has extensive experience working closely with diverse groups of students, families, and colleagues in public schools and institutions of higher education. Her work focuses on issues related to equal access to resources and opportunities, and the empowerment of voice for all individuals, particularly those with disabilities. Lunch will be provided; RSVP required to fcsua@ucf.edu by January 19, 2019.
December 4, 2018. 3 - 4 PM
The purpose of this webinar is to provide an overview of the CRLA International Mentor Training Program Certification (IMTPC) to Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs. The presenter for this webinar will be Michael Saenz, Assistant Director of Students Success from the University of Texas at Dallas.
Downloads:
November 6, 2018. 3 - 4 PM
FCSUA welcomes Linda Mussillo from Project SAINT at Santa Fe College, Marria Partee from STAGE Program at Indian River State College, and Susan Chiappone from Project ACCESS at Florida Keys Community College. They are the program directors of three Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTP) at Florida State Colleges and shared their approaches to program development and program structure.
Downloads:
Project STAGE Indian River State College.pdf
October 26, 2018. Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Drs. Paula D. Kohler and Drew Andrews participated at the 2018 Division on Career Development and Transition International Conference with the presentation "From Research to Practice: A Strategic Planning System for Postsecondary Education Programs". The presentation described how Florida provides supports for PSE programs for students with intellectual disabilities across the state, including the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities (FCSUA). Also described how FCSUA fosters program development in universities, colleges, and CTE centers, and identifies evidence-based and promising practices regarding PSE for students with ID and integrated that information into a strategic planning process and a Team Planning Tool for program development.
Downloads:
October 3, 2018. Goodwill Industries of Central Florida
Dr. Paula Kohler was part of the Disabilities and Unique Abilities in the Workplace Panel Discussion hosted by the Central Florida Disability Chamber (CFDC) on October 3 at 9 a.m. This event toke place during the National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This informative panel also included Attorney Rick Larson and Goodwill Industries Vice President of Workforce Innovation Maria Cherjovsky. The panelists helped to understand diversity in the workplace and dispel common biases that often hinder success, as well as bridge the gap between law and reality.
October 2, 2018. 3 - 4 PM
FCSUA welcomes Stephanie Leland and Kathleen Taylor from the Division of Florida Colleges and Division of Career and Adult Education to give the perspective of the Florida Department of Education during the reviewing process of a Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP) Application.
Downloads:
September 11, 2018. 3 - 4 PM
In this webinar we welcome Debra Noel, Regional Program Supervisor and Community Affairs and Wait List Lead from the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) to share information on postsecondary education supports provided by APD.
Downloads:
August 15, 2018 - August. 16, 2018. Tallahassee, Florida
The Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities represented by the Dr. W. Drew Andrews, Technical Assistance Coordinator, will be part of the training to EAGLE Connections Postsecondary Program mentors at Tallahassee Community College following the International Mentor Training Program Certification (IMTPC) Level 1 requirements offered by the College Reading & Learning Association.
August 3, 2018 - August. 4, 2018. Florida Hotel & Conference Center. Orlando, Florida
Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities will have a display table at the 11th Annual Youth Summit hosted by The Florida Youth Council. This conference is a place for young people with disabilities between the ages of 15 and 30 from communities across the state of Florida to come together to learn, share, and network. The 11th Annual Youth Summit will bring together over 200 youth and emerging leaders to attend engaging youth-only sessions on a wide variety of topics, including transition, workplace preparedness, and post-secondary schooling.
July 18, 2018. ChampionsGate Resort ​Orlando, Florida
This presentation will take place between 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Osceola A Conference Room. The 2016 enactment of the Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program Act is making meaningful change in the lives of students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education settings: universities, state colleges and district technical centers and colleges. During the presentation Dr. Kohler will explain how the Act is being implemented, grant and scholarship availability, and model programs striving to improve postsecondary outcomes for our young people with unique abilities.
July 18, 2018 - July 22, 2018. Tallahassee, FL
FCSUA will participate at the 2018 Florida Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) represented by Dr. W. Drew Andrews, Technical Assistance Coordinator. The YLF for Students with Disabilities is a unique leadership-training program for high school students with disabilities.
July 15, 2018 - July 18, 2018. St. Louis, Missouri
3rd Summer Institute to train the trainers in mentor and tutor training programs. The goal is to provide the training and tools for developing programs for mentors and tutors that meet professional standards and best practices. Attendees will have the opportunity to work in small groups and benefit from in-depth, personalized interaction with the instructors. FCSUA will be participate on the Institute as well as IHE team members from the FPCTP Project ACCESS at Florida Keys Community College, FPCTP STAGE at Indian River State College and the FPCTP Inclusive Education Services at University of Central Florida.
July 12, 2018. University of Central Florida, Orlando
The Florida Centre for Students with Unique Abilities participated at The 2018 Annual Hartwick Symposium as a vendor. The 2018 Annual Hartwick Symposium Series is a set of annual symposiums conducted to meet the needs of students with intellectual disability, families, and professionals. The 2018 Annual Hartwick Symposium: Secondary and Family Focus will take place from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM respectively. The Family Focus Symposium is to inform families and students of postsecondary options and resources leading to employment and career opportunities for students with intellectual disability and the Secondary Symposium is for secondary educators to learn about Florida’s postsecondary options and resources for students with intellectual disability.
June 26, 2018 - June. 28, 2018. Disney's Coronado Spring Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Dr. Paula Kohler, Executive Director of Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities will be offering the presentation: "Pathways to Success for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities through Postsecondary Education". The session will be part of the Transition From School to Adult Life Conference Strand.
Downloads:
June 20, 2018 - June. 21, 2018. Embassy Suites - Orlando North, 225 Shorecrest Drive, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
This Midyear Check and Connect Institute is a follow-up to the Florida Postsecondary Education Program Planning Institute held in January 2018. The purpose of the Midyear Institute is to provide professional development and technical assistance to IHE teams to facilitate planning and implementation of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTP) for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions: universities, state and community colleges, and career tech centers.
Downloads:
June 15, 2018. Hyatt Regency, Orlando, Florida
Dr. W. Drew Andrews, Technical Assistance Coordinator of Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities will offer the presentation: Realizing the Dream: Opportunities for Youth with Intellectual Disabilities in Postsecondary Education at The 20th Anniversary Family Cafe from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
June 12, 2018 - June. 14, 2018. Kalamazoo, MI
Dr. Kohler's presentation, "Building a Sustainable CTP", had the purpose of increase understanding of resources available for and facilitate planning and implementation of inclusive postsecondary education and employment programs for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions.
Downloads:
June 11, 2018 - June. 13, 2018. Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, Bonita Springs, Florida
Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities (FCSUA) represented by the Technical Assistance Coordinator, Dr. W. Drew Andrew, will be participating at Florida CASE 21st Annual Summer Leadership Institute as a vendor. During the Institute, attendants will be able learn more FCSUA work to implement Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTPs), the FPCTP Grants and Scholarships.
June 8, 2018. The Paragon School. Orlando, Florida
Step Up For Students is Sponsoring a Gardiner Scholarship Networking Conference: “Effective Strategies for supporting Students with Unique Abilities†from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Dr. W. Drew Andrews, Technical Assistance Coordinator of Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities will offer a presentation during the conference. This event promises to be a day full of networking and information gathering in the areas of Legislative and Operational Updates, Teaching & Learning, Community Culture, and Transition Services to meet the needs of special needs students and their families.
May 30, 2018. Naples Grande Resort, Naples, Florida
The presentation will take place during the session 2 between 10:00 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. This session will provides information on the process schools can complete to qualify for support for students with intellectual disabilities. Specifically, how students in CTP programs can receive financial aid, including eligibility requirements for schools, programs and students.
Downloads:
May 11, 2018. Hyatt Regency Orlando 9801 International Drive Orlando, Florida 32819
Dr. Paula Kohler, Executive Director of Florida Center Students with Unique Abilities offered the presentation: Expanding Access: Tap into Resources from the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities (FCSUA), from 9:45 AM to 10:45 AM. The presentation provided an update on implementation of the Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP) Act and resources available through the FCSUA. The presentation also included information from program annual reports regarding student characteristics, student services, credentials, and data collection regarding student success. Information will include strategies to build inclusive programs, recruit students, and address equity issues (such as under-representation of African American students in current FPCTPs).
Downloads:
May 2, 2018 - May 4, 2018. Daytona Beach Hilton, Daytona Beach, FL
Dr. Paula Kohler, Executive Director of Florida Center Students with Unique Abilities offered the presentation: “Pathways to Employment: Postsecondary Education Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilitiesâ€
May 1, 2018. 3-4 PM
The webinar provided information on the application process involved in becoming a Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary (CTP) Program. All Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTPs) are required to apply to become CTP Programs. The webinar was hosted by Dr. Clare Papay from Think College. Follow the links below to see the slides related to the webinar and to see the webinar on FCSUA YouTube channel.
Downloads:
April 19, 2018 - April 20, 2018. University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
Dr. W. Drew Andrews, Technical Assistance Coordinator of Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities will offer the presentation: Pathways to Employment: Postsecondary Education Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities.
April 5, 2018. EpiCenter at St. Peterburg College. Clearwater, FL
Dr. Paula Kohler, Executive Director of Florida Center Students with Unique Abilities offered the presentation: Expanding Access: Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities from 11:10 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. during the 19th Annual Narrowing the Gulf for Underrepresented Students in Postsecondary Education Conference. The conference is co-sponsored by SPC's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, Retention Services Department and the Florida Association of Higher Education and Disability (FL-AHEAD).
Downloads:
April 3, 2018. 3-4 PM
The webinar provided information on various revenue streams to support Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTPs) and was hosted by Dr. Paula Kohler, Executive Director of the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities. The webinar was recorded and will be posted on FCSUA YouTube channel. The slides related to the webinar are available to download below.
Downloads:
March 17, 2018. UCF Track & Soccer Field 4275 East Plaza Drive Orlando, FL 32816
Visit the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities (FCSUA) at the UCF Black and Gold Challenge Autism Awareness Walk. The event is Saturday March 17, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the UCF Track and Soccer Field and features a variety of organizations and festivities. Visitors to our table will learn about the FCSUA and can make a Carnival mask to take home.
February 15, 2018. Crystal River, FL.
Creating Opportunities for Students with Intellectual Disabilities in Florida's Colleges. Presentation offered by Dr. Paula Kohler at the Council of Instructional Affairs and Council of Student Affairs Meeting that took place on February 15-16, 2018 at Crystal River. Florida.
Downloads:
January 24, 2018 - January 26, 2018. B Resort and Spa – 1905 Hotel Plaza Boulevard, Lake Buena Vista, FL
The purpose of this Institute is to increase understanding of resources available for and facilitate planning and implementation of Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Programs (FPCTP) for students with intellectual disabilities in all types of postsecondary education institutions: universities, state and community colleges, and career tech centers
Downloads:
January 11, 2018.
Through this webinar, the center provided an overview of the institute format, the kinds of information that will be useful in team planning sessions, and equipment and other supplies you might consider bringing. It’s our experience that team leader participation in this webinar greatly enhances the Institute’s outcomes and impact for leaders and their teams.
Downloads:
December 16, 2017. UCF Memory Mall
Visit the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities at the Holiday Festival hosted by the UCF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD). The festival is Saturday December 16, 1pm to 4pm on the UCF Memory Mall. We are excited to represent Brazil in this multicultural holiday celebration. Visitors to our table will learn about the FCSUA and have a chance to make a Carnival mask or ornament. The event features other organizations and festivities
Downloads:
November 30, 2017. Gainesville, Panama City and Fort Myers
The purpose of these workshops was to address the immediate need for information regarding FCSUA resources and program development. Also we pretend to provide planning tools to help prepare postsecondary education staff and constituents to participate in the Florida Postsecondary Education Program Planning Institute. The workshops took place between October 25th and November 30th, 2017.
Downloads:
October 26, 2017 - October 27, 2017. Santa Fe College. Gainesville. FL
The Executive Director Paula Kohler emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Florida College System to improve the outcome of students with intellectual disabilities. Also the presentation had an overview of FCSUA at UCF and FPCTP resources.
Downloads:
June 15, 2017.
FCSUA webinar about Florida Postsecondary Transition Program scholarship requests, distribution and reporting.
June 14, 2017.
FCSUA webinar about Florida Postsecondary Transition Program scholarship requests, distribution and reporting.
May 10, 2017 - May 11, 2017. Lake Buena Vista, Orlando. Florida
Florida College Access Network brought together Florida leaders, educators and professionals representing K-12 education, higher education, non-profit organizations, philanthropy, business and government around a common agenda to drive access and success Postsecondary program for all students in Florida. Dr. Paula Kohler gave a conference about the aims pursued by the center, the FPCTP programs, scholarships and grant opportunities.
Downloads:
May 3, 2017 - May 5, 2017. St. Petersburg Beach FL.
Dr. Paula Kohler offered a conference about FCSUA and the Florida Postsecondary Transition Programs.
Downloads: