Empowering Postsecondary Success and Independent Growth
The TOPS (Transitions to Postsecondary Institutions) Program at Robert Morgan Educational Center and Technical College provides young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities an inclusive postsecondary educational experience. Approved as a Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP) and a federally recognized Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary (CTP) program, TOPS prepares students for competitive employment and independent living through personalized academic and technical training.
Inclusive Career and Technical Education Pathways
TOPS students are fully integrated alongside adult peers in high-demand Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, following standard Florida Department of Education curriculum frameworks. Supported pathways include:
- Baking and Pastry Arts
- 3D Animation Technology
- Commercial Art Technology
Students work toward full Career Certificates and industry certifications while building essential workplace technical skills in an inclusive, collaborative environment.
Comprehensive Student Support & Person-Centered Services
To ensure academic progress and personal development, TOPS offers dedicated case management and individualized support, including:
- Person-Centered Planning through PATHS and interest/career inventories
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies and Section 504 Plan accommodations
- Specialized study guides, time management systems, and instructional technology integration
- Bilingual case management (English and Spanish) and ongoing family communication
- After-school “ProSessions” led by certified special education and CTE faculty
Hands-On Career Readiness & Leadership Opportunities
TOPS balances hard technical skills with critical soft-skill training focusing on professionalism, self-advocacy, and self-determination. Program participants gain real-world experience through:
- Paid and unpaid internships and on- or off-campus work experiences
- Development of professional marketing tools (resumes, digital portfolios, and business cards)
- Collaboration with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) consultants and prospective employers
- Participation in community events and CTSO competitions like SkillsUSA at local, state, and national levels
Financial Aid & Scholarship Access
Due to its federal CTP designation and FPCTP approval through the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities (FCSUA), eligible TOPS students can apply for federal financial aid via FAFSA (including Pell Grants) as well as dedicated FPCTP scholarships to help fund their postsecondary education.
Building a Trail to Future Independence
From earning industry credentials to delivering keynote presentations at state conferences, TOPS students consistently demonstrate high levels of academic progress and career achievement. Discover how the TOPS Program at Robert Morgan Educational Center and Technical College can help you or your student achieve long-term career success.
