The Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) convened on January 24, 2025, to address critical support systems for students with disabilities in Texas. A key focus of the meeting was the ongoing challenges faced by students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) as they transition from high school to post-secondary education.

Christine, a coordinator and coach from Bloom, shared insights from her work with students in Nevada and Texas. She emphasized the importance of personalized support, noting that many students struggle with the shift in academic expectations when entering college. "There's a huge disconnect between the expectations of students in high school and those in college," she stated, highlighting the need for tailored guidance to help students manage their workloads and navigate new environments.

The meeting also spotlighted the efforts of institutions like Houston Community College, which is implementing a pilot program to provide additional success coaches and transition specialists. These roles aim to offer the necessary support for students to complete industry-specific certificates and degrees. "By having this extra level of support, these students can succeed," said a representative from the college.

Participants discussed the importance of educating high school educators and transition coordinators about the differences in accommodations between high school and college. Many students enter college with misconceptions about the support they will receive, which can lead to confusion and anxiety. "We need to stress that modifications provided in high school will not be available at the college level," one attendee noted.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to enhance collaboration among educational institutions to better serve students with disabilities. As the council moves forward, there is a clear recognition of the need for comprehensive support systems that address both academic and social challenges faced by these students. The discussions underscored a collective goal: to ensure that all students, regardless of their backgrounds, have the resources and guidance necessary to thrive in higher education.