Program To Help Special Needs Students After Graduation (TN)

September 17, 2010

A major education announcement is designed to help Nashville’s disabled youth get a better education and gain employment.

The Mayor’s Advisory Council on Special Education made the announcement during a meeting on Thursday.

The new program would be somewhat of an internship. Students will be working with local business and government agencies learning the basics of a 9-to-5 job.

Mayor Karl Dean believes this program will help to create opportunities for kids of all abilities.

"This is an area where I think we could really set a national standard for helping students with special needs when they graduate, either go on to further education or to help them find jobs. It’s good for the entire community, it’s good for them, and it’s kind of exciting, it’s the right thing to do," said Mayor Dean.

The advisory council also listed a number of recommendations for Metro Schools. They include continuing to monitor Metro’s progress, conducting independent reviews, and developing a district-wide strategic plan to address the needs of special education students.