When students believe that they can succeed and when they have the tools to persist, they can carry that confidence into college, into job training programs, and of course, into adulthood. Resiliency and self-efficacy are critical to their academic preparation, especially for students with disabilities.

- Cheri Wright, Director of Student Success Initiatives - Florida, Helios Education Foundation

During the recent High School High Tech conference, Cheri Wright sat down with Allison Chase, The Able Trust President and CEO, to discuss how Florida’s students, including those with disabilities, can increase postsecondary education attainment and workforce success. In addition to early exposure to careers and postsecondary options, the role of resiliency and why it matters just as much as academic preparation was discussed. Research shows that students with higher resilience are better prepared to manage stress, regulate emotions, and avoid burnout — all crucial for navigating the pressures of higher education and workforce preparation.

Wright emphasized that when students develop confidence, self-efficacy, and problem-solving skills, they are better prepared to navigate the complex systems they will encounter as they leave high school and move onto their next steps. High School High Tech helps students build these skills early, helping them learn to advocate for themselves, work through challenges, and manage responsibilities as supports change after high school.

By investing in student resiliency, instructor professional development and data-driven innovation, support from partners like the Helios Education Foundation is helping ensure that students with disabilities are not only prepared to take their next steps—but equipped to thrive long after they do.

We hear stories from High School High Tech instructors regularly on the impact this program is having on the students they work with. When we get the opportunity to hear directly from parents, their unique voice helps bring our work to life. Gaining a better understanding of how these remarkable students overcome barriers helps us understand the difference HSHT is making in families in communities across Florida.

To read Zoey's story and learn about other student successes, select the button below.

As we work to bring this life-changing program to more students with disabilities, we are excited to welcome new High School High Tech programs, celebrating that growth through recent check presentations with our local partners. We were thrilled to welcome Okeechobee County’s HSHT program and the Taylor County HSHT program, officially bringing these dedicated instructors into our growing High School High Tech network.

These new programs reflect our shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for students with disabilities, and we look forward to supporting instructors and partners as they begin serving students in their communities through High School High Tech.