THERMON’S STORY
A Florida High School High Tech alumnus and Vocational Rehabilitation client through Embrace Families in Maitland, Jahnquace “Thermon” Watkins participated in an on-the-job training opportunity
The Able Trust’s High School High Tech (HSHT) program provides Florida high school students with all types of disabilities the opportunity to explore jobs or postsecondary education leading to in-demand careers. HSHT links youth to a broad range of academic, career development and experiential resources and opportunities that will enable them to better meet the demands of the 21st century workforce.
HSHT students are provided transition services based on the nationally recognized Guideposts for Success: school-based preparatory experiences, career preparation and work-based learning, connecting activities, youth leadership and development, family involvement and support and communication skills.
HSHT programs are located in 45 sites across Florida and work with students with disabilities to:
HSHT is a community-based partnership made up of students, parents and caregivers, businesses, educators and rehabilitation professionals. It has been shown to reduce the high school dropout rate and increase the overall self-esteem of participating students. If you are interested in participating, there is a role for you.
There are a variety of ways to get involved in your local High School High Tech program:
For information, or to find out how to help support the High School High Tech program in your area, contact Coleen Agner at [email protected].
The Able Trust has launched the High School High Tech Ambassador program for high school seniors interested in strengthening their workforce readiness skills and becoming more involved in their communities.
The first group of HSHT ambassadors includes three students chosen for the active participation in High School High Tech and compelling video presentation:
Watch the video and hear our High School High Tech student ambassadors talk about the benefits of participating. Learn more about them by visiting the High School High Tech Ambassadors webpage.
High School High Tech HSHT) students were provided transition services based on nationally recognized Guideposts for Success: school-based preparatory experiences, career preparation and work-based learning, connecting activities, youth leadership and development, family involvement and support and communication skills. To learn more, visit www.abletrust.org/high-school-high-tech.
As shown in the graphic to the left, outcomes for 2022-23 included:
A Florida High School High Tech alumnus and Vocational Rehabilitation client through Embrace Families in Maitland, Jahnquace “Thermon” Watkins participated in an on-the-job training opportunity
My son Richard was diagnosed with high functioning autism at the end of his kindergarten year, and our life changed. Academically, Richard did very well but socially…
Melisa Lewis wanted a career in health care – and she wasn’t about to let her auditory processing deficit and hearing loss keep her from achieving her dream…
An April 28, 2021 Florida Times-Union article, “Rehab tech at Wolfson becomes autism role model”, states that as a child, Ricardo was diagnosed with autism but he didn’t let this stop him…
This project funded by The Able Trust and the Florida Department of Education, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR).
Florida’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program serves youth with disabilities transitioning from school to work and has partnered with the HSHT initiative to meet the needs of these students. VR Transition services are designed to assist students with disabilities from high school to a successful employment outcome and inclusion in the community as a productive citizen. Learn more about he VR School-to-Work Transition Program at 850-245-3399 or rehabworks.org.