Project Description:
Virginia Commonwealth University proposes to provide an inclusive on-campus transition and postsecondary program for young adults with intellectual disabilities (ID). Implementation of this program will be accomplished through the leadership and collaboration of the VP of Student Affairs, VP of Academic Affairs, the Center for Teaching Excellence, the Rehabilitation Research & Training Center, and the Partnership for People with Disabilities. The proposed goals of the project are: a) develop and implement a college transition and postsecondary program (ACE-IT!) at VCU for young adults with ID between the ages of 18 to 26; b) adapt the VCU on-campus program at two community colleges; and c) develop and implement training materials (including curriculum) and information for local education agencies, adult service agencies, young adults with ID and their families to not only prepare young adults with ID for college, but also to assist localities around the state in developing and implementing inclusive postsecondary opportunities.
The outcomes of the ACE-IT program are an established credential program and competitive employment process for college students with ID through the use of college academic and career supports. This will be achieved through a 30 month on-campus program that will focus on college students with ID building a series of academic learning experiences for credit or non credit selected from the VCU course catalog. It is anticipated that the program will be designed to serve up to 35 students with ID over the course of the model demonstration. Approximately 20 will be served at VCU and 15 at the community college sites. Young adults with ID participating in the program will receive: a) person centered planning to guide academic advisement and course selection that will be incorporated into a student?s Academic/Career Plan; b) academic supports provided by Education Coaches and the use of universal design strategies
and selection and training in technology; c) career exploration and preparation including business mentors, short- term internships in the community, and other career exploration activities; d) social networking and soft skill development through social clubs and other activities sponsored on campus; e) financial literacy and planning for college and employment to assist students in managing their resources; and f) job placement and training activities through the VCU Career Center and support from the ACE-IT staff.
Target Audience:
Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities, General Public
