Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities face the most profound and complex learning challenges, and constitute less than one percent of the student population. The impact of a student’s significant cognitive disability affects all aspects of the student's academic, independent, home/community living, leisure, and vocational activities.

Useful information:

All Florida students participate in the state’s assessment and accountability system. The Florida Standards Alternate Assessment (FSAA) is designed for students whose participation in the general statewide assessment program is not appropriate, even with accommodations. The FSAA measures student academic performance on the Access Points (FS–AP) in Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Access Points are academic expectations written specifically for students with significant cognitive disabilities. They reflect the essence or core intent of the standards that apply to all students in the same grade, but at reduced levels of complexity. The FSAA program includes two assessment components. The FSAA—Performance Task (FSAA–PT) is designed to assess students at three levels of complexity and results are reported through achievement levels.

• Florida Department of Education ESE Eligibility
• Florida Standards Alternate Assessment for Teachers and Families 
• ACCESS to Florida Standards 
• Florida Department of Education Access Points

Useful links for teachers:

• Vizzle Log in link

Vizzle is an interactive software that educators can use to enhance group lessons, target specific skills or concepts during small group instruction, or individualize lessons for each student that they may use independently. 

• LessonPix

Online tool for creation of unlimited, custom visual materials to support learning, communication, and behavior.

• NY2/Unique Learning Systems

A living curriculum with high-interest educational content that’s always up-to-date and aligned to all state standards.

• Teach Town

Designed to improve the academic, behavioral, and adaptive functioning of students with disabilities. Teachers, parents, and clinicians need proven tools and strategies that can help them meet educational goals and increase every child’s intellectual and social functioning. TeachTown is committed to research and evidence-based practices with an exclusive focus on serving the needs of only a few student populations.

• Florida Diagnostic Learning and Resources System (FDLRS) Technology

FDLRS provides assistance and support in the appropriate use of a variety of technologies for students, teachers, professional staff, and parents. Support services are available in the areas of assistive technology, instructional technology, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), AIM/NIMAS Florida services, and virtual/online instruction.