Who gets DORS services?
Students with a wide variety of significant physical, emotional, cognitive and learning disabilities may qualify for services.DORS begins to serve students while they are still in high school, usually at the beginning of their next to last year, so they can move into higher education, vocational training and employment. Students who have been in special education programs, received accommodations in school or have significant health conditions may be eligible for services.
Why does my child have to be found "eligible" for services? There is a difference between “eligibility” and “entitlement” programs.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEIA) assures that all children with a disability are entitled to a free, appropriate public education, designed to meet their unique needs.
Toward the end of high school, students with disabilities may choose to seek services from a public rehabilitation program, such as DORS. These programs operate under another law—the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. This law requires applicants to meet certain criteria in order to be eligible for services.
Because funding for rehabilitation services is limited, individuals with the most significant disabilities are served first. Even if eligible, students with less significant disabilities may not receive services.
Does DORS pay for college or other education after high school?
DORS is not a primary funding source for post-secondary education, but may assist with certain costs once the student has applied for scholarships and grants.
At what age can a student take part in DORS services?
DORS usually begins to work with students early in the next-to-last year of school. DORS counselors work with secondary school staff throughout Maryland to find and assist students who may be eligible.
Will DORS pay for out-of-state college, training or other services? If post-secondary education is required for a DORS consumer to achieve the employment goal on an approved Individualized Plan for Employment, the DORS counselor will assist the consumer in exploring where the required educational program is available.
DORS policy provides for financial assistance up to the rate of a public community college for the first two years, and up to the rate of the University of Maryland, College Park, for the third and fourth year of a bachelor’s degree.
Most students who attend college with DORS support commute to a local college or university. If an appropriate program is not located within 45 miles of your home or if there is another significant reason to live on campus, DORS may provide financial assistance for room and board on an exception basis only.
Talk to your DORS counselor for additional information about financial assistance with college.
Does DORS give scholarships?
DORS may provide financial assistance with higher education after you have applied for all other grants and financial aid, if post-secondary education is required to achieve the employment goal on an approved IPE. The DORS counselor determines the amount of financial assistance based on state regulations and DORS policy. This determination is made each semester.
Does DORS have internships?
DORS counselors often arrange internships with businesses and government agencies so that individuals with disabilities can gain valuable work experience.
DORS Human Resource Development program also arranges internships in DORS field offices or the Workforce & Technology Center for individuals who are interested in rehabilitation careers.
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