MASON CITY, Iowa – North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) will begin offering a new program for students with intellectual disabilities in fall 2024.
The EDUCATE (Education, Career and Training Experience) program is a four-semester higher education program that supports students by providing individualized academic support, career preparation, life skills development and social opportunities, according to NIACC. It is the only community college in Iowa to offer a program of its kind that helps students with intellectual disabilities access higher education opportunities.
“NIACC is pleased to introduce the EDUCATE program,” said Lisa Vance, NIACC’s Director of Disability Services. “The program provides students with critical work readiness, employability and social skills, as well as valuable work experience, ensuring they are well prepared to enter the workforce and succeed in their chosen careers. The EDUCATE program includes extensive support from faculty and staff to assist students throughout their academic experience.”
Each student’s curriculum will be individually tailored to incorporate the program’s approved core classes and approved electives in the student’s area of interest. According to NIACC, to participate, students must meet the following criteria: be between the ages of 18 and 25, have a documented intellectual disability, and have graduated from high school. Students must also be able to provide their own transportation to and from campus or NIACC’s Campus View student housing complex if they choose to live on campus.
For more information about the EDUCATE program and to apply, visit https://www.niacc.edu/student-life/disability-services/educate