Based on our belief that all students should have the opportunity to learn academic skills like reading and math which is supported by IDEA and NCLB legislation, the research team at The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) has undertaken a series of studies aimed at finding ways to teach academic skills to students with significant cognitive disabilities that are linked to grade-level content standards. Our purpose is to improve the educational programs of these students through research that opens new opportunities for learning. Our success is measured by the extent to which we increase expectations and positive outcomes for these students.