NCED (NE UCEDD) Pilots Nevada's First PSE Program for Students with IDD

September 17, 2013

The Path To Independence Project is a collaborative effort of UNR's Nevada Center for Excellence in Disabilities (NCED), the University of Nevada Reno Extended Studies Department, the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR), and Sierra Regional Center (SRC). It is based on the national Think College model (www.thinkcollege.net), which supports students with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD) to have a college experience. It is a two-year, non-degree certificate program. The Path To Independence pilot project enrolled its first student at UNR in Fall 2013.

Enrollment through Extended Studies offers flexibility for a diverse student population while not impacting the matriculating student numbers. In-class supports are individualized, based on need, and are funded by SRC. In addition, students in the NCED's Developmental Disabilities (DD) Minor program earn three credits in an independent study class as social mentors for Path to Independence students.

The project is structured into three areas: Academics & Campus Activities, Employment, and Independent Living. Each student will participate in Person Centered Planning (PCP) during the first semester. The results of the PCP will determine the level of academic involvement, since UNR courses will be the core of each student's individualized plan. In conjunction with the independent living component and to encourage lifelong healthy living, each student will be urged to take one wellness/physical education class per semester. Students will participate in campus activities such as clubs/organizations and sports activities. The DD Minor social mentors will be integral in this aspect of college life.

During Year Two, Path To Independence staff will work with each student and their family to develop a customized employment vocational profile and plan. Students will develop a portfolio. Job developers will work in conjunction with BVR to find on- and off-campus internships and employment for students in areas of career interest. Competitive Employment is the expected outcome for each student.

An important aspect of college life for all students is learning to live independently. This is a challenging area for students with IDD and their families. Path To Independence staff will assist each student to access community services, classes and supports that will lead to the desired independent living outcomes in the PCP. These will include weekly cooking and nutrition classes and, public transportation travel training through the Northern Nevada Center for Independent Living (NNCIL); Human Sexuality and Relationships; Personal Finances; and Self-advocacy mentorship for each student provided by People First of Nevada members.