Postsecondary Education for Adults with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities

Summertime marks a season of major transition for families with recent high school graduates. The hustle and bustle of catching school buses and scheduling parent teacher conferences, attending school concerts and marching band practice are behind them and the family discussion turns to plans for the next big stage in life, college. The anticipation of this fresh new start brings on a host of new topics to explore: selecting the perfect class schedule, purchasing dorm room essentials and preparing for an independent life away from home. The college/postsecondary education experience is pivotal for students of every capability. Although the conversation of pursuing higher education isn’t as common for students with intellectual disabilities, this special community has as much drive and desire to pursue it as any other.

Benefits of Postsecondary Education

Postsecondary education opens doors to future employment, independent living opportunities and life enriching experiences:

• Tools, coaching and mentoring for future employment
• Meaningful friendships and positive peer group engagement.
• Learning open mindedness when experiencing new ideas and development of social tolerance and acceptance.
• Learning critical thinking, abstract reasoning and oral/written communication.
• Expanding educational or vocational knowledge base

How the Educational Community Meets the Needs of Students

The educational community has evolved and expanded in recent years, providing ample opportunity for students with intellectual disabilities to pursue traditional postsecondary education opportunities.  Academic programs and schools are widely varied in terms of the services and programs, certificates and diplomas they provide; the key to finding the perfect program is to begin your research as soon as possible. Get familiar with the existing programs in your area, determine the entrance requirements and be sure teaching styles and programming is in line with your student’s personality and need.

• Does the school provide programming for areas your student is specifically interested?
• Will your student be offered opportunity to pursue part-time jobs or volunteer work?
• Do they provide independent living skills training and or residential options?
• What type of diploma or certificate will your student earn?
• Do they provide assistance in applying for and understanding financial aide? See the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 (HEOA).

Selecting Your School

When it comes to selecting the program or school best suited for your student, feel confident in asking whatever questions you may have. Pursue the support of organizations like www.thinkcollege.net. Many organizations just like this one, exist to provide a wealth of information on the topic of postsecondary education for students with intellectual disabilities.  They have asked the hard questions and advocated for families just like yours.

Enjoy This Process.

Most importantly, ENJOY this process! This is a huge move for your family. Savor the sweet moments of graduation, family vacation and those big days of packing up and helping one of your own pursue the excitement of the freshman landscape.