A significant financial boost aims to enhance vocational and independent living skills for young adults with disabilities.

Governor Phil Murphy and Acting Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) Kevin Dehmer have unveiled a substantial $9.6 million in grants designated for programs that support 18 to 21-year-old students with disabilities transitioning from school to adult life. This initiative, termed the Maximizing Post-School Outcomes for Students with Disabilities Grant, targets those with significant special needs across seven county special services school districts (CSSSDs).

This one-time funding, sourced from the State’s American Rescue Plan Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund, will enable CSSSDs to launch new or enhance existing projects. Each district will collaborate with local educational bodies and various entities to tailor services to the individual needs specified in students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The focus of these programs includes work-based learning opportunities in community settings, emphasizing essential life skills such as social communication, daily living management, self-advocacy, and integrated leisure activities.

“The goal of this program is to increase the number of students with disabilities who transition out of the school setting ready to become engaged as active citizens in their local community,” said Acting Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer.

The grants will be distributed as follows:

• Atlantic County: $1,428,278
• Bergen County: $1,071,420
• Burlington County: $1,428,560
• Cape May County: $1,428,558
• Gloucester County: $1,428,560
• Mercer County: $1,415,892
• Salem County: $1,404,173

Totaling $9,605,441, the grant period extends from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2026. This funding represents a strategic investment in the futures of young adults with disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary support to integrate successfully into the community and lead fulfilling lives.