High School High Tech
The National Science Foundation predicts that, by the end of this decade, 80% of U.S. jobs will require some level of math, science or technology skills
Embrace Families works to prepare teens in foster care for the jobs of the future through the High School High Tech (HSHT) program, in partnership with The Able Trust.
ABOUT HIGH SCHOOL HIGH TECH
In Florida, The Able Trust’s HSHT program serves as a career and academic resource for young people with documented learning or physical disabilities. In Central Florida, this valuable enrichment program, managed by Embrace Families, is tailored to address the individual needs and interests of teens and young adults in foster care.
HSHT encourages high school students in foster care to explore careers in high-demand, emerging and growing industries, as well as related post-secondary education and training options. Career exploration is hands-on, including participation in exciting activities which take place after school and on the weekends. Participants meet twice per month for activities such as field trips, soft skill development, campus tours and job shadowing.
ABOUT VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION
For young people with documented disabilities, additional intensive support and Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is also available through Embrace Families.
Florida’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program serves youth with documented disabilities as they transition from school to work. In partnership with The Able Trust’s HSHT program, Â VR Transition services help students who have graduated high school prepare for and find meaningful employment.
Under this program, participants have the opportunity to participate in sponsored career counseling, work readiness training, and full integrated work experience in the community. Services start while the student is still in high school, establishing a foundation for seamless transition training, education and employment based on individual skills and interests.
PROVEN RESULTS
Now in its third decade, research shows that involvement in the HSHT experience reduced high school drop-out rates, increased enrollment in post-secondary institutions and increased participation in educational, vocational and employment-related activities. On a more personal level, involvement has shown to increase the overall confidence of participating students and to boost expectations for their future success.
GET INVOLVED
To refer a young adult to HSHT, or to get the process started, complete and submit the form below. Or email Kendall.Seifert@EmbraceFamilies.org
ABOUT OUR PARTNERS
Florida HSHT is a program of The Able Trust, in partnership with the Florida Department of Education, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and local organizations, including Embrace Families.
The Able Trust funds more than 35 High School High Tech sites throughout Florida, serving youth with disabilities in high school. Our site is unique in that we operate throughout Orange, Osceola and Seminoles counties exclusively to serve youth in foster care. In 2013, The Able Trust recognized Embrace Families HSHT program as the Public Organization of the Year.
