Bill > S2157

This bill aims to expand higher education opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those with severe intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and other developmental disabilities, by amending Chapter 15A of the General Laws. Key provisions include requiring public institutions of higher education to offer inclusive opportunities for these students to gain academic, career, and independent living skills, and removing standardized testing, high school diploma, minimum academic, and grade point average requirements for enrollment in credit-bearing and non-credit courses alongside students without disabilities. The bill also mandates that these students be fully included in all aspects of campus life, including academic and non-academic activities, and be eligible for financial assistance with progress determined by their skill development for adult life. Furthermore, it establishes an "Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative" through a grant program to support partnerships between school committees and higher education institutions for students aged 18-22 with severe intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring tuition waivers, necessary supports, and training for faculty to foster successful inclusion, with a focus on academic success, participation in student life, and competitive employment. The bill also addresses the inclusion of these students in residence life and outlines how costs for their participation will be covered, involving inter-agency agreements and specific funding mechanisms.