Student Success Archives - The Able Trust

High School High Tech inspires Wakulla alumna’s dream career choice

Justin Adams — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:11:07 +0000

Jennifer McCans remembers the discussion where she learned about her daughter Kiersten’s visual disability like it was yesterday.

“We were told by a doctor when Kiersten was three months old that she had ocular albinism,” she said. “He told us everything that she would not do. I just sat and cried.”

But the new mother found determination amidst despair. After a follow-up consultation, Jennifer got Kiersten involved in community programs for children with disabilities and sought out resources to help mainstream her daughter in elementary school.

“We expected her to do anything that a sighted child could do,” explained Jennifer. “She just has to do it in a different way.”

Kiersten used magnifiers and other implements to learn alongside her fellow students, but still dealt with social insecurity and bullying. By the time she reached high school, she was shy and uncertain about what her future would look like.

The young student began to overcome both of those struggles when she joined Wakulla County’s High School High Tech program for students with disabilities. Today, Kiersten is preparing to start her second year as an elementary education major at the University of West Florida (UWF) in Pensacola.

“High School High Tech gave me a good community full of other people who were disabled like me,” said Kiersten. “It made me more sure of what I wanted to do.”

Administered by The Able Trust, High School High Tech provides opportunities to explore career training and postsecondary education options in a structured, supportive environment. This helps students strengthen communication skills, develop confidence and self-advocacy, and build the independence needed to transition successfully from high school to further education and the workforce.

The change did not come overnight: “At first, Kiersten was kind of in a shell by herself,” said Sharon Scherbarth-Simmons, Wakulla County’s program lead for High School High Tech through a partnership with Ability1st. “She worried about what people thought of her and her disability.”

Through High School High Tech, Scherbarth-Simmons helped Kiersten to find and use her voice. The scholar went on to become a leader and mentor for younger students in the program, volunteer her time with the Special Olympics and Florida Youth Leadership Forum, and even participate in school and community theatre productions.

But Scherbarth-Simmons knew Kiersten had turned a corner regarding her future when she took the initiative to ask her own questions during a college fair.

“Sometimes students go and pick up the information and kind of move on, but she had some specific questions for the different colleges,” said Scherbarth-Simmons. “I could see her really start to think ‘I’m going to do something after high school. I’m going to have a career.’”

High School High Tech gave Kiersten hope, guidance, and the tools and the confidence she needed to prepare for college. It’s helped her with the whole process.

Jennifer McCans, Kiersten's mother

The process of applying to colleges led to another revelation—one that touched Scherbarth-Simmons’s heart.

“Kiersten wrote a letter about wanting to be a Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) like me,” she said. “That made me super proud that she wants to give back and help people who are in a similar position.”

Patricia Bodiford, who worked with Wakulla High School High Tech and Ability1st prior to becoming the bureau chief for the Florida Department of Education’s Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services, was likewise thrilled to learn of her former student’s career interest.

“I was like, we need her to come talk to the Bureau about wanting to be a TVI or an Exceptional Student Education teacher in and of itself, because that’s the highest need right now in Florida,” said Bodiford. “We need more people like Kiersten in the field.”

Kiersten ultimately chose to attend UWF, where she earned all A and B grades as a freshman.

“I can definitely now see myself being a teacher and helping other children with disabilities,” said Kiersten.

Scherbarth-Simmons is happy to witness students like Kiersten taking charge of their futures during and after their time in the High School High Tech program.

“All the different pieces to the High School High Tech puzzle really make a difference—getting out there and being a little more social, finding out about careers and colleges,” she said. “Kiersten really put all the pieces together and developed this sense of independence.”

Jennifer McCans knew her daughter was in good hands and building toward a promising future in High School High Tech.

“We want her to live a full, safe, rich life,” said Jennifer. “High School High Tech gave her hope, guidance, and the tools and the confidence she needed to prepare for college. It’s helped her with the whole process.”

Reflecting once more on the pediatric meeting where she learned of Kiersten’s visual impairment, Jennifer recalls her resolution to support her daughter’s journey regardless of the circumstances.

“I thought in my head, Kiersten’s going to be able to do anything that anybody else does, and we’re going to make sure that happens,” she said. “And now she’s surpassed it.”

Kiersten’s story shows the impact of High School High Tech’s structured, skills-based approach to connect education to meaningful career pathways. Through the program, students gain the confidence, experience, and direction needed to pursue college and careers while preparing to fill critical workforce needs across Florida and inspire the next generation.

The Able Trust’s High School High Tech program serves students with disabilities from Miami to Pensacola and all across Florida. Learn more at www.abletrust.org/high-school-high-tech.

Subscribe to our Empower newsletter today to stay up to date on High School High Tech success stories like Kiersten’s, as well as The Able Trust’s activities, current research and more.

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Thriving in college, Hillsborough High School High Tech alumnus gives back

Justin Adams — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 14:45:56 +0000

When a group of students from the High School High Tech program for students with disabilities at Pepin Academies’ New Port Richey campus visited Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) recently, first-year PHSC student Jethiel Morales stepped forward confidently to share his experience at the college and answer their questions.

Jethiel, an alumnus of Hillsborough County High School High Tech pursuing his associate of arts degree in graphic design, relished the opportunity to pay it forward and mentor other students as they explore their own postsecondary pathways.

To his mother, Berlitz Davila, this was another example of just how far her son has come since his early childhood.

“Jethiel was completely nonverbal until he was six years old,” explained Davila. “He experienced a lot of tantrums just because he wasn’t able to communicate. We did the therapies, and nothing worked.”

Jethiel’s speech and communication skills began to improve after the family moved to Florida. But his most significant growth came when he joined High School High Tech.

High School High Tech, administered by The Able Trust, provides opportunities to explore career training and postsecondary education options in a supportive environment. This helps them develop confidence, strengthen communication skills, and build the independence needed to transition successfully from high school to their next steps.

“High School High Tech helped Jethiel to develop self-confidence and better interact with his peers and the people that were around him,” said Davila. “It prepared him to know how to work with others.”

I want to be an artist and tell stories using my own characters ... High School High Tech has given me major confidence in taking the initiative and pursuing my goals.

Jethiel Morales, Hillsborough HSHT program alumnus

Miranda Ray, program lead for Hillsborough County High School High Tech, saw Jethiel develop from a quiet, reluctant participant in his early days of the program to a confident peer leader in various activities. She knew he had turned a corner when, at the start of an annual holiday swap shop activity reselling donated toys and clothing, the young man made a bold prediction.

“He comes up to me, and he goes ‘I’m going to sell the most,’” said Ray, who also leads High School High Tech programs in Pasco and Pinellas counties. “And he did!”

As Jethiel’s self-confidence grew, he began to share his passion for visual arts and animation. He created his own website to house a digital portfolio featuring a wide range of his work.

“I want to be an artist and tell stories using my own characters,” said Jethiel. “The special thing about art is that you always have time to improve; you can always learn something. The only limits are your imagination and your physical ability.”

When Ray mentioned the annual Arts4All: Animation Gets Real summer camp for students with autism spectrum disorder during a High School High Tech tour of the University of South Florida, Jethiel was immediately enthusiastic. He took part in the camp as a student and returned the following summer to work as a camp assistant.

After his successful stint working at the animation camp, it was only natural for Jethiel to step up and offer his insights to prospective Pasco-Hernando State College students who also participate in High School High Tech.

“He sat with the kids and answered questions and talked with them, and he did a presentation about what his experience was like transitioning from Pepin Academies to PHSC,” said Ray. “And these were kids he didn’t know, because they were from the Pasco campus.”

Jethiel quickly built a rapport with this new audience, providing valuable advice on classroom accommodations and general tips gathered from his first year at the college. At the end of the visit, the Pasco County High School High Tech Leadership Council presented Jethiel with a certificate of appreciation for his efforts.

“Explaining my experiences like that really does show me that I have grown, that I’ve changed,” said Jethiel. “And that just makes me really happy. High School High Tech has given me major confidence in taking the initiative and pursuing my goals.”

For her part, Ray is thrilled to see Jethiel continue to thrive as an independent alumnus of the program she leads.

“I’m so proud of him,” she said. “He certainly has become very self-sufficient. I’m honored to see what he’s done. It’s all coming together.”

Jethiel’s story underscores the impact of High School High Tech’s hands-on, career-focused experiences. These supports help provide students with practical skills, industry exposure, and the confidence to pursue education and training for high-demand career pathways, ultimately strengthening Florida’s future workforce and expanding opportunities for young people with disabilities.

The Able Trust’s High School High Tech program serves students with disabilities from Miami to Pensacola and all across Florida. Learn more at www.abletrust.org/high-school-high-tech.

Subscribe to our Empower newsletter today to stay up to date on High School High Tech success stories like Jethiel’s, as well as The Able Trust’s activities, current research and more.

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Broward alumna, current FAMU dentistry student found her voice through HSHT

Justin Adams — Mon, 04 May 2026 14:29:56 +0000

From a young age, Leila Burgess was often quiet and afraid to engage with others despite growing up in a dynamic family. Her mother, Michelle, was concerned when she noticed the toddler watching her lips move when she spoke rather than reacting to the sound of her voice.

“She was about three or four years old, and that’s when we discovered her hearing loss,” said Michelle—a discovery that led to a diagnosis of partial hearing loss in Leila’s left ear, and near-total hearing loss in her right.

With the support of a hearing aid and cochlear implant, as well as years of intentional skill-building at home and in a range of activities from cheerleading to ballet, Leila began developing the independence needed to navigate the personal challenges of living with a disability. Despite her progress, Leila remained hesitant to speak up, advocate for herself, or step into leadership roles.

That self-isolation began to change during her junior year at Everglades High School in Miramar, when she joined the Broward County South High School High Tech program, administered by The Able Trust.

“High School High Tech gave me the tools, support and encouragement I needed to grow,” she said. “The program did more than help me choose a career path—it taught me how to find my voice.”

Through High School High Tech, Leila gained access to structured career exploration and leadership development opportunities specifically designed for students with disabilities. Moreover, she found a supportive environment that challenged her to build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and develop community with her peers.

Farah Hogarth, who serves as the program lead for Broward County South High School High Tech, immediately recognized Leila’s capability in spite of her initial shy nature.

“I knew it was in her,” said Hogarth. “She wasn’t talking too much, and I realized I had to engage her, but even in brief little conversations I saw she had so much potential. It was just a matter of her building up her confidence and seeing that potential for herself.”

High School High Tech did more than help me choose a career path; it taught me how to find my voice.

Leila Burgess, Broward South HSHT program alumna Tweet

For Michelle, Leila’s growth thanks to her time in High School High Tech was clear.

“The staff were extremely supportive; they knew the areas where Leila might have some deficit, and they encouraged and motivated her,” said Michelle. “High School High Tech helped a lot with building her confidence and accentuating her leadership skills.”

Leila’s growing advocacy skills for herself and others led to her election as Broward County South’s High School High Tech president during her senior year.

“Leila had to run the meetings after the first two that year,” said Hogarth. “I was like, wow, she is really coming out of her shell because she went for this challenge. And she realized she could be a leader and speak in front of people. She’s amazing.”

Today, Leila is completing her freshman year at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, where she is pursuing a degree in dentistry. She has already been inducted into the National Society of Black Women in Medicine—selected from a competitive pool of 500 applicants—and will participate in a professional internship this summer in Nebraska.

Leila credits High School High Tech as a pivotal factor in her continued success.

“High School High Tech gave me insight on leadership roles, finding mentors, networking, and just connecting with other kids who have disabilities,” said Leila. “I struggled a lot with speaking in public, but the program helped me learn to advocate for myself and others, and be comfortable when communicating and sharing my story.”

Leila’s journey shows what’s possible when students with disabilities have access to structured, skill-based programs that connect education to real career pathways. High School High Tech benefits communities and economies alike by strengthening Florida’s talent pipeline, equipping more young people to enter high-demand fields with confidence, and building a more prepared workforce.

The Able Trust’s High School High Tech program serves students with disabilities from Miami to Pensacola and all across Florida. Learn more at www.abletrust.org/high-school-high-tech.

Subscribe to our Empower newsletter today to stay up to date on High School High Tech success stories like Leila’s, as well as The Able Trust’s activities, current research and more.

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Nassau student navigates multiple disabilities to pursue technical education in HVAC

Justin Adams — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 21:59:51 +0000

When Jackson R. was a toddler, his mother, Karen, could never have imagined he would one day be an honor roll student and member of the golf team at Hilliard High School.

At that time, she simply wanted to know why her young son could not talk.

“At two and a half, Jackson was not speaking,” explained Karen. “At first we just assumed it was because he’s the baby of the family, but we didn’t realize he had speech challenges because his muscles in his cheeks weren’t working properly.”

Jackson’s parents took him to speech therapy twice a week to address that issue, but as he grew, he continued to experience a wide range of medical problems. Eventually, doctors decided to run genetic testing and discovered Jackson’s DNA had a deletion in his second chromosome.

“All the puzzle pieces suddenly fit together—the speech, his not growing as tall as everybody else, not being able to move his hands well,” said Karen. “There were only seven kids in the United States that had that deletion at the time. His doctors told us we would just have to learn as we went.”

Jackson also regularly experienced bullying in school because of his height. It was not until he joined Nassau County’s Florida High School High Tech program that Jackson realized he was not alone; in fact, he had a community of fellow students with disabilities.

“I’m really glad I got to join the program,” said Jackson. “I wanted to be around more people with disabilities like me.”

High School High Tech, administered by The Able Trust, provides students with disabilities opportunities to explore career training and postsecondary education options. One of the program’s goals is to improve the odds of students achieving long-term career success, thereby helping to close the nearly 35-percentage point gap in employment between Floridians with disabilities and the general population.

Nassau County High School High Tech program lead Chris Von Doersten has noticed a major change in Jackson since he first participated in a career camp on Florida State College at Jacksonville’s (FSC-J) Yulee campus about two years ago.

“I’ve seen him mature and his confidence increase,” said Von Doersten. “I think that confidence he gained in High School High Tech boosted him to explore and try a new career track.”

I just thought Jackson would graduate and get a simple job, but High School High Tech has really helped him look at other options for the future. The growth has been tremendous—from where he came from to where he is now is just miraculous.

Karen R., Jackson's mother

Thanks to High School High Tech, Jackson went from having no plans for postsecondary education to dual-enrolling in Career and Technical Education coursework in heating, ventilation and air conditioning at FSC-J. He plans to continue studying HVAC and pursuing his industry certification at the college after graduating from Hilliard High.

But Jackson’s newfound confidence and drive have given him more than a new focus for his future. He is also making friends and gaining job experience through his love of golf, both as a member of his high school team and an employee of The Golf Club at North Hampton in Fernandina Beach.

“High School High Tech helped a lot with job interviews,” Jackson said. “It helped me get a job I really wanted at a place I love.”

In addition to his day-to-day work at North Hampton, Jackson has been on duty for major events such as the Toys for Tots Golf Tournament, which welcomed about 120 players to the club in October. He has proven himself to be highly responsible in his position at the golf course.

At the same time, Jackson has built strong self-advocacy skills. On one occasion when he was on a shift by himself after his fellow employee failed to come in to work, Jackson called his boss and spoke up for himself to ask for help.

“Jackson would have never done that before his time in High School High Tech—he would have just stuck it out quietly and done the best he could have done,” said Karen. “I was really proud when he came home and told me ‘Mom, I spoke up!’”

For Von Doersten, this example is just one of many that clearly shows Jackson’s growth through High School High Tech.

“I’ve been happy to see Jackson be able to manage his time and take on all these responsibilities,” said Von Doersten. “He’s really become a very mature young man.”

Karen agreed, crediting the High School High Tech program with aiding Jackson in overcoming his fear of communicating with others and deciding to pursue a rewarding career after high school.

“I just thought Jackson would graduate and get a simple job, but High School High Tech has really helped him look at other options for the future,” she said. “The growth has been tremendous—from where he came from to where he is now is just miraculous.”

The Able Trust’s High School High Tech program serves students with disabilities from Miami to Pensacola and all across Florida. Learn more at www.abletrust.org/high-school-high-tech.

Subscribe to our Empower newsletter today to stay up to date on High School High Tech success stories like Jackson’s, as well as The Able Trust’s activities, current research and more.

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Duval County student’s growth as self-advocate opens doors to a bright future

Justin Adams — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 16:55:06 +0000

When Erica Carter first met Tyler K. during a meeting to discuss his Individualized Education Program plan, she found the then-ninth grader to be quiet and reluctant to participate.

“During that transition meeting, his parents spoke more than he spoke,” said Carter, a student coordinator and math teacher for grades nine through twelve at Morningstar School in Jacksonville. “They kind of spoke for him.”

Tyler, who lives with multiple disabilities, developed the ability to speak up for himself through his time in Duval County’s chapter of the Florida High School High Tech youth program for students with disabilities. Now a senior at Morningstar, Tyler not only plays a much more active role in his education planning meetings—he also has a plan for his future.

High School High Tech, administered by The Able Trust, provides access to career exploration experiences and postsecondary education options to help students with disabilities make a smooth transition to life after receiving their high school diplomas. The program has a 99% graduation rate for participating students.

“We have lots of parent nights and Vocational Rehabilitation nights to get these families connected to resources in the area,” said Jordan Carlson, program lead for Duval County High School High Tech through The Arc Jacksonville.

In Tyler’s case, High School High Tech helped him learn about The Arc Jacksonville’s On-Campus Transition Program for students with disabilities at the University of North Florida. The transition program offers career exploration, the opportunity to audit college courses, and on-campus housing with an independent living mentor to help students adjust to their new environment.

“Hearing about it changed things,” said Tyler, who plans to attend UNF through the program after graduation. “I’ll get to learn some life skills and take some classes at the same time.”

That self-assurance to plan his next steps, and Tyler’s confidence in general, are direct products of his more than three years participating in High School High Tech. Carter, who has taught Tyler in multiple classes, has witnessed the change firsthand.

“I see Tyler speaking up a lot more,” said Carter. “He’s very capable of advocating for himself.”

Tyler is a very strong leader … He’s made big improvements on his professional skills, communication and confidence.

Jordan Carlson, Duval HSHT program lead

High School High Tech’s program requirements are based on the Guideposts for Success, a nationally recognized set of educational standards to help students with disabilities successfully transition to life after high school. One of the Guideposts focuses on teaching self-advocacy skills and providing opportunities to engage in youth leadership roles—activities that help students persist in education and build resilience as they pursue their goals.

According to Carlson, Tyler has developed into not only a strong self-advocate but also a leader among his peers, even serving as Morningstar’s senior class president.

“We had instances during our summer programming where our day wasn’t going the way we thought it would,” said Carlson. “Each time, Tyler helped me to gather the students and was a very strong leader.”

Tyler has also embraced opportunities to strengthen his communication and professionalism through volunteer work, including service at his church, assisting with a Halloween Trunk-or-Treat at a local independent living facility, and serving guests at The Arc Jacksonville’s annual Dinner with Bill and Friends fundraiser.

“He was serving a lot of important people in Jacksonville, communicating with others and helping out the other students,” said Carlson. “He’s made big improvements on his professional skills, communication and confidence.”

Tyler approaches these chances to hone his leadership and social skills confidently thanks to his experiences in High School High Tech.

“Throughout my time in High School High Tech, I’ve had opportunities to learn a lot of different skills,” he said. “I’ve learned there’s a lot of jobs out there I could do.”

The Able Trust’s High School High Tech program serves students with disabilities from Miami to Pensacola and all across Florida. Learn more at www.abletrust.org/high-school-high-tech.

Subscribe to our Empower newsletter today to stay up to date on High School High Tech success stories like Tyler’s, as well as The Able Trust’s activities, current research and more.

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Gulf County student discovers entrepreneurial drive thanks to HSHT

Justin Adams — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 19:02:56 +0000

The goal of starting a business in the food industry was not always clear to Gulf County High School High Tech student Zoey Ham. Nor, in fact, was any sort of independent future.

Ham was held back two years in elementary school due to struggling with an intellectual disability, and had difficulty communicating with others. Her mother, Amanda King, worried about Ham’s prospects for self-sufficiency.

“I honestly wasn’t sure Zoey would ever be able to work a job or go to college or anything like that,” said King. “I for sure thought she would be with me for a while.”

According to King, High School High Tech proved to be a turning point for Ham in terms of both developing independence and making academic strides. Ham now earns A and B grades in her classes and will graduate with her diploma this spring.

High School High Tech, a youth program administered by The Able Trust, provides access to career exploration experiences and postsecondary education options to help Florida students with disabilities make a smooth transition from high school to their next steps. The program has a 99% graduation rate for participating students.

High School High Tech opened Ham’s eyes to possibilities beyond graduation. From a successful visit to Tom P. Haney Technical College to exploring and developing work experience in a wide variety of jobs, the program showed the scholar she had many choices for her life after high school.

“I didn’t really know I’d have so many options,” said Ham.

One particular work experience inspired Ham to pursue a future as an entrepreneur. When the Gulf County High School High Tech students signed on to staff the concession stand at the Port St. Joe Ball Park, Ham quickly established herself as a capable leader in both customer service and food preparation tasks.

“They were having a hard time finding people to work the stand, and they didn’t have anybody who knew how to work a fryer so they weren’t even going to consider offering fries,” said Kodi Linton, Gulf County High School High Tech’s program lead through CareerSource Gulf Coast. “Zoey took it right on, and she pretty much ran that concession stand from that point. They knew when she came in that everything was going to be taken care of.”

I think her personality and just who she is, along with High School High Tech, has really created a future for Zoey that we didn’t think she’d be capable of reaching.

Amanda King, Zoey Ham's mother

The experience had an effect beyond satisfying fans’ needs for a fresh salty snack. Ham discovered she not only had a knack for cooking and food service operations—she also had a passion for both.

“The longer I did it, the more it helped me change my goals,” she said. “Now I want to be a cook and have my own business.”

Ham’s interest in entrepreneurship speaks to a sustained trend: According to the Small Business Administration, individuals with disabilities are twice as likely as members of the general public to go into business for themselves.

For now, Ham continues to gain work and leadership experience working as a High School High Tech intern for Linton, from serving as a vocal advocate for herself and her fellow students to assisting with key tasks in running a summer camp for children in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade.

“I cannot tell you how much I genuinely appreciate that she knows to take the initiative,” said Linton. “She’s just very reliable. She’s put a lot of work into herself and into High School High Tech.”

King has also noticed positive changes at home thanks to Ham’s participation in High School High Tech.

“She’s become more independent,” said King. “Because our schedules are so busy, there are times when Zoey will cook dinner or make sure things are done that help us—whereas before, I just don’t think Zoey would’ve ever thought that she could do any of those things. She can manage herself by herself.

“I think her personality and just who she is, along with High School High Tech, has really created a future for Zoey that we didn’t think she’d be capable of reaching.”

Linton agreed, adding that Ham’s time in High School High Tech has been transformational for the soon-to-be graduate.

“I’ve seen Zoey turn into Zoey in these past few years,” said Linton. “I’m so proud of her.”

The Able Trust’s High School High Tech program serves students with disabilities from Miami to Pensacola and all across Florida. Learn more at www.abletrust.org/high-school-high-tech.

Subscribe to our Empower newsletter today to stay up to date on High School High Tech success stories like Zoey’s, as well as The Able Trust’s activities, current research and more.

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Leon HSHT Alumnus Credits Program for College Success, Leadership Skills

Justin Adams — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 14:22:58 +0000

After struggling in school while living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder, postsecondary education was just about the last thing on Zach Staubitz’s mind as graduation drew closer.

“I loved school, but I wasn’t really looking at college when I was a senior,” said Staubitz. “I was like ‘let me just graduate and go into the workforce.’ I was just going with the flow.”

Five years later, Staubitz has earned two associate’s degrees and is close to finishing his bachelor’s degree at Florida State University. He credits his years in the Florida High School High Tech program with setting him on his new and improved course by teaching him about possible careers; improving his interview, job etiquette and multitasking skills; and connecting him to leadership opportunities.

“The activities in High School High Tech opened my eyes and led me to change my career path to social media and graphic design,” Staubitz said. “I really don’t know where I’d be without the program.”

High School High Tech, a youth program administered by The Able Trust, provides Florida students with disabilities access to career exploration experiences, postsecondary education options, and key resources to help them plan for success after graduation. The program helps prepare students for a smooth transition from high school to college, vocational school, career training and other options. While some students with disabilities ultimately do not complete their high school diplomas, High School High Tech has a 99% graduation rate for participating students.

Former Leon County High School High Tech coordinator Chris Carlberg could tell his student was wrestling with feeling prepared for adulthood and choosing a career path. But Staubitz’s supportive parents strongly emphasized the benefits of pursuing a college degree, and with their encouragement and Carlberg’s guidance, the scholar enrolled at Tallahassee State College.

“I believe High School High Tech highlighted the importance of college and the formative value of postsecondary education to Zach,” said Carlberg. “He’s embraced the lifestyle that comes with it, whether that be joining clubs, serving the community, or making friends.”

Those aspects of life were not always present in Staubitz’s world; for example, as a child, he was mostly surrounded with people in his age group who did not have disabilities. He struggled to make friends and often dealt with feelings of isolation.

Participating in High School High Tech quickly made it clear to Staubitz that he was not alone.

“High School High Tech opened up a space for me to be myself, have friends and communicate socially,” said Staubitz. “It helped me feel like I had a community.”

High School High Tech was transformative for Zach, and seeing him grow since then has been transformative for me as well. He remains one of the most resilient people I know.

Chris Carlberg, former High School High Tech coordinator

In addition to the inspiration to go to college and the empowerment of a welcoming community, Staubitz developed his own leadership skills, even serving as president of the Leon County program after some encouragement from Carlberg.

“Zach used to never think of himself as a leader,” Carlberg said. “In fact, when I suggested he run for High School High Tech president, he said he had never considered running for a role like this.”

Staubitz excelled as president, helping Carlberg to coordinate logistics like scheduling and transportation for High School High Tech events. He has continued to thrive in positions of leadership since then, with key roles in FSU’s Social Spear and Best Buddies organizations as well as the Florida Youth Leadership Forum.

Staubitz manages these roles while also working in customer service at Publix—to say nothing of his soon-to-be-achieved bachelor’s degree in media and communications studies with a minor in psychology. He hopes to work as a social media manager after finishing college.

“A lot of people say ‘wow, you’re busy,’” Staubitz said, laughing. “I just learned how to measure time down to the minute. I want to make an impact with my legacy at FSU.”

Carlberg believes the young scholar is well on his way to doing just that.

“Thanks to High School High Tech, Zach remained focused on finding a career that was attainable, reliable, and tied to his interests,” Carlberg said. “I am so proud of him for pursuing a career in communications that is both practical and driven by his passion.

“High School High Tech was transformative for Zach, and seeing him grow since then has been transformative for me as well. He remains one of the most resilient people I know.”

The Able Trust’s High School High Tech program serves students with disabilities from Miami to Pensacola and all across Florida. Learn more at www.abletrust.org/high-school-high-tech.

Subscribe to our Empower newsletter today to stay up to date on High School High Tech success stories like Zach’s, as well as The Able Trust’s activities, current research and more.

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Broward County Student Shares How High School High Tech Changed Her Life’s Path

Justin Adams — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 16:27:52 +0000

(Editor’s note: This narrative was contributed by Alexandra “Axel” Garcia, a High School High Tech student from Broward County. The following is Axel’s personal story of the impact participating in the High School High Tech program has had on her career goals, aspirations, and self-confidence.)

High school was never easy for me. Living with ADHD meant that my brain often raced in a hundred directions while the classroom expected me to focus on just one thing at a time. Trying to keep track of assignments, organize my thoughts, and actually retain what I was learning often felt like trying to hold water in my hands—it would all just slip through the cracks no matter how hard I tried.

And it wasn’t because I didn’t care. I did care. I wanted to do well, to make people proud, to feel proud of myself. But when the systems around you aren’t built with your brain in mind, even your best efforts can feel invisible. That constant struggle left me feeling mentally and physically drained every single day.

Layered on top of that was my anxiety, which added another barrier most people couldn’t see. I was always second-guessing myself—overanalyzing how I walked, how I spoke, even how I breathed around others. It was like I lived on high alert, always waiting for the next comment, the next laugh that I knew was about me.

It got to the point where I’d get up in the middle of class just to escape. I’d leave the room, heart racing, trying to calm the storm inside me because I could hear the whispers or feel the stares. Those moments left me feeling exposed, like I couldn’t even exist in a room without being picked apart. I’d sit wondering what I had done wrong—why just being me seemed to rub people the wrong way.

Eventually, all that pressure started to break me down. My motivation disappeared. I stopped asking questions, stopped participating, and just tried to survive each day without drawing too much attention. My only goal became making it to graduation and getting out as fast as I could. I didn’t think about college or a career. I didn’t dream about a future, because deep down, I wasn’t even sure if there was space in that future for someone like me. The sense of not belonging was like carrying a weight I couldn’t put down.

Everything began to change when I enrolled in the career placement program at Atlantic Technical College. That’s when I first came across High School High Tech. At first, it just sounded like another career program—but the more I learned, the more it felt like something I had been unknowingly searching for.

High School High Tech wasn’t just about academics or jobs; it was about helping students with disabilities like mine explore real opportunities, build skills, and gain confidence in a world that so often overlooks us. And for the first time in a long time, I felt a spark of hope. I didn’t have to fight to be seen—High School High Tech saw me already.

High School High Tech didn’t just give me access to career options.
It gave me a second chance at believing in myself.

From the moment I joined, things began to shift. The people in High School High Tech didn’t judge me for how I learned or how I communicated. They met me where I was. The staff truly cared and made sure we were supported not just in our goals, but in our growth. And through the program, I met people who understood me in ways others never had. These weren’t just classmates or peers; they became friends I could trust, people I still talk to and lean on today. I finally found a community where I didn’t have to explain or hide who I was. I could just be, and that meant everything.

One experience in particular stands out as a turning point for me: our visit to the Florida Panthers’ hockey stadium. We got an exclusive look behind the scenes and I was blown away by the level of detail, coordination, and creativity that goes into producing a live game. Watching the camera operators, sound techs, and production crew all working together was like seeing a symphony of moving parts, each person playing a role to bring the experience to life for the audience. I had never thought about media production or broadcasting before that day, but something about it spoke to me. The energy, the focus, the teamwork—it felt like a place I could see myself growing into.

That moment opened my eyes to career possibilities I hadn’t even known existed. Before High School High Tech, I thought I might become a teacher or a social worker—careers focused on helping others, which felt natural to me given how much I longed to support those who feel overlooked. But after seeing what goes on behind the scenes at events like that game, I realized that helping others can take many forms. I could be someone who helps tell stories, who brings people together through creative work, who keeps things running smoothly even if no one ever sees my face on a screen. That realization changed everything.

Now, I’m interested in career fields that require collaboration, creativity and precision—fields where my mind, with all its fast-moving thoughts and attention to detail, can actually be an asset. These are things I never would’ve considered without the exposure High School High Tech gave me. It helped me imagine a different future—one that feels exciting, fulfilling and, most importantly, possible.

High School High Tech didn’t just give me access to career options. It gave me a second chance at believing in myself. It helped me see that my ADHD and anxiety aren’t flaws; they’re just parts of my story. And with the right support and understanding, I can grow through them rather than be defined by them. I don’t have to squeeze myself into a mold that was never made for me. I can create a path that fits me.

And for the first time in a long time, I can truly say I’m not just surviving—I’m looking forward to what’s next.

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High School High Tech Alumnus Thriving in U.S. Navy

Justin Adams — Wed, 21 May 2025 18:48:45 +0000

After crossing the stage at their high school graduation ceremonies, many alumni of the Florida High School High Tech program for students with disabilities either enter the workforce right away or pursue additional education at a college, university, or technical school. Gulf County’s Aden Hortin heard a different calling when he graduated in 2024.

“When I said I wanted to join the Navy, my High School High Tech coordinator was like ‘do it!’” said Hortin. “She and my mom were very supportive.”

Their enthusiasm, and Hortin’s, was well founded.

High School High Tech, a youth program administered by The Able Trust, provides Florida students with disabilities access to career exploration experiences, postsecondary education options, and key resources to help them plan for success after graduation. The program helps prepare students for a smooth transition from high school to their next postsecondary endeavor, whether that be attending traditional or technical college, workforce training or, in Hortin’s case, military service.

The Wewahitchka High School alumnus is nearing the end of his first year in the United States Navy, and has completed after-boot camp training and most of his qualifications for safety and emergency purposes.

Hortin works as an aviation machinist mate on his ship, specializing in helicopter mechanics and troubleshooting. He has adapted well to the expectations and shifting schedules associated with the job.

“At times, we’re the only ones on the flight line or flight deck, so if something happens, I’ve got to go,” he said.

Hortin’s willingness to take the initiative is not a new development. According to Gulf County High School High Tech coordinator Kodi Linton, Hortin’s leadership during his senior year was instrumental in spurring his team to a state championship in an entrepreneurial competition for High School High Tech students.

“Aden was the driving force—he told his teammates ‘We’re winning this thing,’” said Linton. “It was so rewarding to see their personalities change, and to see them become more comfortable with public speaking.”

Hortin, who presented as the lead speaker during the team’s presentation at the state finals, continues to be interested in public speaking and hopes to work as an instructor with America’s Sea Cadets, the Navy’s youth development program.

High School High Tech also offers students like Hortin the opportunity to explore career fields and gain real world experience through internships. During his own internship with the Port St. Joe Police Department, Hortin’s interest in the Navy was encouraged by a detective who had experience in the branch.

“He told me it was a really good idea to go into the military,” said Hortin. “He really got me interested in federal law enforcement as well, and showed me some of what they do.”

Looking ahead to the future following his service time, Hortin is weighing his options. He is considering a career in federal law enforcement, such as with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). Hortin may also elect to attend law school.

Throughout each school year, students in the High School High Tech program learn about career opportunities by touring local businesses and organizations, as well as welcoming guest speakers. During a recent period of leave from his naval base, Hortin visited Linton’s current group of students to discuss his experiences in High School High Tech and the military, and encouraged them to strive for greater success.

“Have some emotion towards your future,” Hortin said. “If you’re thinking you want to join the military, do it. Set the standard, for yourself and others.”

Celebrating its 30^th anniversary this year, The Able Trust’s High School High Tech program serves students with disabilities from Miami to Pensacola and all across Florida. Learn more at www.abletrust.org/high-school-high-tech.

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