HIRE

HOW I REACH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Welcome to the How I Reach Employment (HIRE) Program! We are thrilled to have you join our community of learners who are committed to personal growth, skill development, and achieving meaningful employment. 

As a student in the HIRE Program, you are embarking on an exciting journey designed to empower you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to thrive in today’s workforce. Our program is specifically tailored to support students with intellectual disabilities, offering a blend of academic instruction, hands-on training, and real-world experiences. Throughout your time in the program, you will have access to dedicated instructors, supportive staff, and a network of peers who are here to help you succeed. Your success is our mission, and we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where you can reach your full potential. Remember, this journey is yours, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

VISION

To empower individuals with intellectual disabilities by providing them with the skills , experiences, and support necessary to achieve meaningful and sustainable employment, fostering independence, confidence, and a lifetime of growth.

MISSION

Our mission is to equip students with intellectual disabilities with the tools, resources, and real-world experiences needed to reach their employment goals. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment that emphasizes personal growth, skill development, and career readiness. Through tailored education, hands-on training, and community partnerships, we empower our students to achieve meaningful employment and lead fulfilling, independent lives.

TRANSFORMING DISABILITIES INTO POSSIBILITIES

STUDENT ELIGIBILITY

Scholarships are available only to eligible students. An eligible student is defined as a student with an intellectual disability, who has provided required documentation regarding his or her intellectual disability, and who physically attends the institution.

WHAT WILL SCHOLARSHIPS COVER?

• Tuition
• Books
• Meals (or meal plans)
• Transportation
• Program fees
• Certifications
• Graduation regalia
• Other appropriate costs associated with the student’s education identified in the program disclosure document

APPLICATION PROCESS

There are two paths to becoming a HIRE student, both start by sending documentation such as the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and/or Psychological Evaluation to the program coordinator for review. Email documents to renatof@leeschools.net. This helps us determine the most appropriate path for each student.

Specialized Career Education, Comprehensive (SCE) Path:

• This path is for students who may need more academic support, typically those with an IQ of 70 or below or those who are unsure in which program to enroll.
• In the SCE Program, students will have the opportunity to shadow various CTE programs and select the best option to continue their studies. The scholarship covers this exploration phase.
• Students who qualify for this path will receive an email with a link to apply for the SCE Program the first Monday of March. That will be followed by an interview to ensure the best fit. The SCE class only enrolls once a year in the Fall.

Direct Program Enrollment Path:

• This path is for students with higher IQs (71-78), those who have shown better academic progress, or those with prior experience in the area of the program to which they’re applying. For example, students with prior coursework in automotive mechanics, culinary arts, or related fields may qualify.
• These students can apply directly to Fort Myers Technical College (FMTC) admissions through this link: https://fortmyerstech.edu/future-students/admissions/.
• We take great care in placing students in the most suitable program to ensure their success. Please note that students who fail to complete a program would not be eligible to apply for the HIRE Scholarship again.
• Enrollment for the Fall term opens the 1st Monday of March at 8 am (classes start in July or August) and enrollment for the Spring term that starts in January opens the 1st Monday of October at 8 am.

Campus Tours:

We highly recommend that all students tour the FMTC campus before applying. To schedule a tour please send an email to Renato Freitas at renatof@leeschools.net

EMPOWERING MINDS TO SEE BEYOND DISABILITY

HIRE STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

The HIRE Program is required to report your academic and employment progress to FCSUA. The HIRE Student is expected to be proactive in seeking employment opportunities both during the program and after completing it. This includes actively applying for jobs, attending job fairs, and participating in career readiness workshops provided by the HIRE Program. 

The HIRE Student is expected to maintain contact with HIRE Program staff for at least 5 years after completing the program in order to track his/her ongoing employment and community involvement.

HIRE PROGRAM VALUES

The HIRE Program is dedicated to empowering students with intellectual disabilities through education and hands-on career training. We create an inclusive, supportive community where every student is valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Empowerment Through Education:

We equip students with the skills and confidence needed for independence and career success.

Inclusive Community:

We celebrate diversity and foster a sense of belonging, ensuring that all students feel respected and supported.

Commitment to Excellence:

We strive for high standards in teaching, support, and community partnerships, continuously improving to best serve our students.

Student-Centered Approach:

Each student’s unique needs and goals guide our personalized support, helping them achieve their aspirations.

Building Futures Together:

By partnering with local businesses and organizations, we create meaningful pathways to competitive employment, bridging the gap between education and the workforce.

REDEFINING ABILITIES,
RESHAPING PERCEPTIONS