BOSTON?— The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced that they have awarded $3.6 million across Massachusetts' public colleges and universities to support students with disabilities participating in Massachusetts Inclusive Postsecondary Education (MAIPSE) programs. 

 

In Berkshire County, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts was awarded a $103,235 Planning and Implementation Grant.

 

MAIPSE enables certain students with severe disabilities to take part in undergraduate academic courses, extracurricular activities, internships, work experiences, and on- campus student life activities.?This includes students with intellectual disabilities, severe autism spectrum disorder, and severe developmental disabilities.?? 

  

"We're lifting barriers for students across our public higher education system," said Governor Maura Healey. "These grants open doors to the college experience for students with disabilities, so that they can grow their knowledge, skills, and workforce readiness through engagement in classes and campus life."  

 

In April, the Board of Higher Education?unanimously approved?the administration's proposed regulations?that established the MAIPSE program. These regulations stem from the state's fiscal year 2023 budget that required all Massachusetts public undergraduate colleges and universities to be prepared to offer opportunities for those students 18 and over with severe disabilities who are otherwise not able to achieve the underlying requirements needed to secure a high school diploma. Under the 2023 law and these implementing regulations, such students can participate in courses as non-matriculating students with their nondisabled peers and engage in other aspects of campus life. Prior to 2022, these opportunities were limited to students ages 18-22.   

 

"Students, regardless of ability, deserve opportunities to engage in the critical thinking and skill development that comes from going to college," said Secretary of Higher Education Patrick Tutwiler. "These grants will grow and strengthen inclusive enrollment programs that are crucial to higher education equity." 

 

The continued grant funding issued to 16 public college and universities continues operations for those with existing MAIPSE programs. The planning and implementation grants assist campuses that are in the process of building or expanding MAIPSE programs.