Young adult students with intellectual disabilities who are accepted into the selective Project SAINT will find a small, inclusive, multi-faceted and modified college program. SAINT schedules combine Adult Education, General Education, Community Education and access to the vast resources of the Santa Fe College. The Project SAINT program also provides job readiness, on the job internships, industry recognized certifications and job placement assistance.
Project SAINT is a one to two year program. Each SAINT student's program is personally tailored via a student-driven STAR plan (Students Transitioning to Adult Roles) related to his or her goals and interests.
The overarching goal of Project SAINT is to to provide a complete "wrap-around" program that addresses a student's life plans for independence through academics, career preparation, independent living skills, campus and community engagement and self-determination.
The primary desired outcome of Project SAINT is job readiness, preparation, and placement.
Project SAINT is designed to support students with intellectual disabilities in the following essential ways:
- By providing a modified and supported college experience that is fully integrated with other SF students in all areas: academic, social and community.
- By developing an individualized student-centered plan of 20 hours weekly for each enrollee that reflects his or her goals and interests and that is focused on successful transition, independent living and employment as key goals.
- By providing a wide range of support for success including mentorship, assistive technology and accommodations and an ongoing advising component.
Eligibility:
SAINT applicants must have a documented diagnosis and meet the IQ criteria for an intellectual disability. They are young adults in transition generally under the age of 25 who want a modified, inclusive non credit and non degree college experience. They are seeking skills that will build their independence, and want ultimately to live and work independently. They are able to communicate effectively, are highly motivated and hard working, can get to and from the campus and are able to navigate it independently. They look forward to and are ready for the challenges of a college environment including a full schedule of classes, internships and activities surrounded by college peers. SAINT applicants are selected for admission based on success in an initial Adult Education class or classes.
How to apply:
Students interested in Project SAINT first apply to Adult Education at SF. Adult Education requires application to SF, an orientation, a 30 dollar fee (per term), TABE testing (Test of Adult Basic Education) and placement in Adult Education classes. The Adult Education Department provides flexible scheduling; small, inclusive academic classes; contextualized certificate bearing vocational pathway classes; career counseling and advisement. For many students who have disabilities, Adult Education is the ideal fit for their needs and schedules, and is their final destination at SF.
For others, the more intensive Project SAINT may be an even better fit. After a trial period in Adult Education, these students may request consideration for Project SAINT or be recommended for Project SAINT. Applications for SAINT are accepted on a rolling basis, with entry fall or spring terms based on available openings and eligibility. The SAINT application procedure includes a detailed questionnaire, documentation, a student essay, references and applicant and parent/guardian interviews. A committee then decides on acceptance.
Cost:
Project SAINT is an approved Florida Comprehensive Transition Program (FCTP) and students are supported by scholarships made available by Florida state legislation and the Florida Center for Unique Learners. Base fees are currently covered by these scholarships for students enrolled in approved FCTP programs. These fees cover the base costs associated with Project SAINT that include up to 10 hours of mentorship weekly, mentor coordination, internships, mini audits, and SAINT workshops. Other Adult Education grants cover the base costs of Adult Education classes, certification-bearing classes and materials. Additional fees for SAINT students include Adult Education fees of 30 dollars per term, fees for any optional full SF audits, costs of optional continuing or community education classes, additional books/materials, travel and food. However, the student scholarships assist with defraying all of these optional costs. Project SAINT students may also attend recommended conferences during the year that are covered by grants.
