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 46 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.
The Able Trust team was thrilled to welcome High School High Tech coordinators from across Florida to the 2025 High School High Tech Conference at the Margaritaville Resort Orlando in November. Click below to see highlights from the conference, access resources, and learn about the winners of our annual HSHT Awards!
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].
Click below to view photos and stories detailing some of our students’ recent activities and opportunities!
View details about the recently launched Futures in Focus program for students with disabilities in grades 9-12.
High School High Tech HSHT) students are 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.
As shown in the graphic to the right, outcomes for 2023-24 included:
The Able Trust selected three High School High Tech Ambassadors from high school seniors interested in strengthening their communication 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 ambassadors talk about the benefits of participating.
As a freshman, I was in the program thinking this is just a program to join. I wasn't really thinking about college and the future. But, it helps me know what I want to do after high school. Since we've visited college and campus tours, it gives me an idea of what I want to do outside of high school. It's really helped me mentally know what I want to do in life. That's what I take from HSHT.
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.
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…
