FLDOE defines Intellectual disabilities through the following definition: “An intellectual disability is defined as significantly below average general intellectual and adaptive functioning manifested during the developmental period, with significant delays in academic skills. Developmental period refers to birth to eighteen (18) years of age. The corresponding definition is found in State Board of Education Rule 6A-6.03011, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.)” 

Eligibility criteria for the Intellectual Disabilities program additionally include “The level of adaptive functioning is more than two (2) standard deviations below the mean on the adaptive behavior composite or on two (2) out of three (3) domains on a standardized test of adaptive behavior. The adaptive behavior measure shall include parental or guardian input”. More information regarding measuring adaptive behavior can be found here. 

Our Program

Martin County School District provides students, ages 3-22, with a significant cognitive disability with a wide array of specialized services. These services are individualized based upon student needs and may include instruction in the Florida Alternate Academic Achievement Standards and Florida Alternate Assessment for English Language Arts and Mathematics and the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards for Science and Social Studies. In addition, life skills related to independent functioning, social/emotional behavior, communication and related services such as physical and/or occupational therapy, and specialized transportation may also be provided to students as needed. A student’s placement is based on the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) reflecting the least restrictive environment appropriate for the student.  The primary focus is to provide the necessary support that will enable each student with a significant disability the opportunity to receive a standard high school diploma and be prepared for post-secondary education and/or employment. 

Curriculum 

Performance and transition areas are considered and addressed based on a student’s individualized education plan (IEP).  Martin County School District has adopted a curriculum to meet the needs of students through specialized instruction in core content areas. Modifications to the general education curriculum are used based on student individual needs and the use of resources from the Access Project. 

Service and Delivery Model 

A student’s least restrictive environment is considered when implementing instructional models. 

Placement 

For students to be placed in a program that provides support for significant cognitive disabilities, they must meet the state of Florida’s criteria for Intellectual Disabilities and have a current IEP outlining eligibility and special education services. 

• Intellectual Disabilities (IND) SP&P

The Florida Standards Alternate Assessment (FAA) is designed for students whose participation in the general statewide assessment is not appropriate, even with accommodations, and it implements the requirements of Section 1008.22, Florida Statutes, requiring assessments that accurately measure the core curricular content for students with significant disabilities.