Every child is entitled to a fulfilling, accessible and inclusive education experience. The Hessel Family Foundation is committed to connecting you with resources from our partners that will guide you towards a path to success for your child. Whether it’s assistance making your current education more accessible, or finding a school that specializes in accessible education, our partners have the resources you need.
The IEP process can oftentimes be overwhelming for families already facing many life challenges. While not legal counsel, an IEP advocate, sometimes referred to as a Special Education Advocate, helps parents represent a child’s legal rights to a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment under the current federal and state laws. Advocates are well-versed on the current laws and procedures for special education and can help parents navigate the special education process.
The advocates can support parents at any time during the process, from preparation for meetings, necessary follow-up or even provide in-person advocacy during meetings with parents and school representatives.
Assistive technology for people with autism comes in various forms, from low-tech to high-tech solutions. Low-tech options include visual schedules, picture communication boards, and sensory tools like weighted blankets, which help with communication and self-regulation. Mid-tech solutions, such as audio recorders or simple voice output devices, can support social interaction and learning. High-tech tools include tablets, apps, and speech-generating devices that offer personalized, dynamic communication support, often tailored to the individual needs of the child. These tools empower people with autism to communicate, learn, and engage with their surroundings more effectively.
Specialized education schools provide tailored learning environments that address the unique needs of children with autism. These schools offer individualized instruction, sensory-friendly classrooms, and dedicated support services that help students develop both academically and socially in ways traditional settings may not be able to.
Unlike traditional schools, specialized education schools employ educators and staff trained to support the diverse challenges children with autism face. From communication techniques to social-emotional development, these schools create customized approaches to learning that empower students to thrive at their own pace.
Specialized schools for children with intellectual disabilities, like autism, offer personalized learning plans, smaller class sizes, and expert staff trained to meet each student’s unique needs. These schools provide structured environments that promote both academic and social development, while also teaching essential life skills and vocational training. With a focus on individualized support, students gain the tools they need to thrive and achieve greater independence.
Families seeking specialized education for students with disabilities have several scholarship opportunities at the state and federal levels to help with tuition, services, and school choice. Below are some key programs that provide financial support:
In addition to these state-specific programs, families can also explore federal options like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which ensures access to special education services, or Medicaid waivers that may assist with school-related expenses for students with significant disabilities. These resources help families secure the education and support their children need to thrive.
[vc_toggle title=”McKay Scholarships for Students With Disabilities” css=””]This program allows parents of students with disabilities to enroll their child in another public school or apply for a scholarship to attend a private school. To be eligible, the student must have been reported for funding in a Florida school district during specific reporting periods (October and February FTE surveys).[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Gardiner Scholarship Program” css=””]The Gardiner Scholarship provides funds that parents can use to better meet the individual educational needs of their child with a disability. The scholarship can cover costs associated with tuition for private schools, postsecondary education, private tutoring, virtual education programs, or approved online courses, including those offered by the Florida Virtual School (FLVS).[/vc_toggle]
The Hessel Family Foundation is partnered with Focus Academy, located in Temple Terrace, FL. Focus Academy is a tuition-free charter school for individuals with disabilities, from grade 6 through age 22. They offer traditional education for grades 6-12, followed by a transition program for individuals age 18-22 to learn life skills that lead them to personal fulfillment. Their curriculum includes a comprehensive drama-therapy program, and traditional classes taught by ESE-Certified Teachers. They serve individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Intellectually Disabled (IND), or Other Health Impaired (OHI).
Prospective students should have an active or be eligible for an individualized education program (IEP), be in grade 6 to age 22, be independently functioning, and be eligible for a modified curriculum.
For more information on admissions, or to request a tour, visit their website.
The Hessel Family Foundation Supports Autism Inspired Academy (AIA) based in Pinellas Park, FL. AIA is an education-based non-profit that serves children with autism grades K-12. They provide a safe and inclusive environment that inspires students to find meaning, purpose and joy in the educational experience.
They offer an elementary program for children in grades K-5, followed by a program for grades 6-12 for older students. The 6-12 program offers two different educational pathways based on your student’s performance and path for the future. Pathway 1 is a standard-based program for students performing within 2-3 years of their grade level, and is focused on increasing the number of people with disabilities obtaining trade school certificates or college degrees. Pathway 2 is a modified academic program focused on teaching workforce skills and life skills in a self-contained setting.
Visit their website for admissions information and to view a virtual tour of their facilities:
