This bill aims to enhance support for neurodiverse students at county colleges in New Jersey by establishing several programs and appropriating a total of $1.475 million. It mandates the creation of a two-year Accessibility Coordinator Pilot Program, which will allocate funds to three county colleges for hiring accessibility coordinators. These coordinators will provide academic advising, assist students in accessing resources, and connect them with job opportunities. The selection of participating colleges will follow a competitive application process, and the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education will oversee the program and report on its progress and effectiveness.
Additionally, the bill requires the New Jersey Council of County Colleges to provide professional development and training for faculty and staff on supporting neurodiverse students, with an appropriation of $75,000 for this purpose. It also establishes a County College Inclusive STEM Infrastructure Grant Program to fund capital construction projects that improve facilities for neurodiverse students, particularly in STEM fields, with an allocation of $500,000. The bill encourages collaboration between county colleges and four-year institutions to enhance support for neurodiverse students, including aligning courses and developing partnerships.