Applications for the University of Central Florida’s new pilot program for students with intellectual disabilities will be accepted through May 8. Prospective students can find the forms and additional information on the program’s website at httsp://ies.sdes.ucf.edu/.
Applications can be returned by mail or email. Some of the requirements include two letters of recommendation, high school transcripts and documentation of intellectual disability, said Adam Meyer, director of Student Accessibility Services and chair of the university’s new inclusive education committee, which is leading the project with parent advocates and community and education partners.
The pilot, a part of UCF’s Student Development and Enrollment Services, is being designed to provide an immersive college experience for students who cannot access traditional college opportunities. The program will start this fall on UCF’s main campus and is expected to eventually become a key component of UCF Downtown, when the campus opens in Fall 2017.
“We really want students who show a consistent desire to learn, who want to come for the pursuit of knowledge, who are excited about being here for the academic experiences,” Meyer said at a community information meeting last week. “We really want to see that motivation from students.”
Last week’s community forum also is available via online video at https://webcast.oir.ucf.edu/. Click on “Inclusive Educational Services Info” to watch.
Five students will be accepted for the program’s first semester; the enrollment is expected to reach 30 to 40 students in subsequent years.
For additional information about the program or the application process, email ies@ucf.edu or call 407-823-4427.