Students with developmental disabilities have limited options for education beyond high school. Most are not eligible to enroll in college credit programs because they do not have a standard high school diploma. The majority of programs for adults with developmental disabilities provide basic transition services that focus on improving employability and skills needed to live independently.
At least 13 Florida school districts offer programs that include aspects of postsecondary education for students with developmental disabilities in Exceptional Student Education (ESE) programs. Three entities (one state university, one state college, and one school district technical center) offer postsecondary education to students who are no longer enrolled in district ESE programs.
Stakeholders have proposed creating a new postsecondary institution for adults with developmental disabilities. While this would give students an additional choice and address some current barriers, establishing a separate program that limits interaction with non-disabled students is inconsistent with emerging national trends. Estimated state costs to create such an institution range from $1.2 million to $40 million in recurring operational funds, and up to $36 million in non-recurring funds.

Many Florida Programs Enhance Students' Career and College Readiness
Report 10-56 November 2010
Legislature Clarified Responsibility for Educating Exceptional Students in Residential Facilities
Report 10-51 August 2010
Responsibility for the Education of Exceptional Students in Residential Treatment Facilities Needs Clarification
Report 08-27 April 2008
Steps Taken to Implement the Exceptional Student Education Funding Matrix, But More Monitoring Needed
Report 08-24 April 2008

Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.