Program to Assist Virginia Students with Disabilities Expands

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 24, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) Alexandria Campus and College Steps announced a new partnership to enhance the college experience for students with disabilities, including but not limited to Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, and Developmental Disabilities. The joint program, beginning fall 2018, directly aligns with NOVA's commitment to ensure all students have an opportunity to pursue a college education regardless of the presence or absence of a disability.

"The partnership with College Steps on the Alexandria Campus will provide additional on-site assistance for our students who require more guidance and learning support," said NOVA-Alexandria Provost Annette Haggray. "We are thrilled to expand upon this partnership NOVA currently has with College Steps to better serve our students."

This is the third partnership between NOVA and College Steps, which have programs in place at the Loudoun and Annandale Campuses.

With operations stretching from Vermont to Virginia, College Steps is a nonprofit organization supporting young adults living with social, communication, or learning challenges via an individualized and peer-based model. It serves both high school transition students interested in a college-primer experience prior to graduation, as well as students already enrolled in college. The organization's goal is to prepare students for meaningful careers and autonomy after graduation, placing strong emphasis on self-advocacy, social competencies, employment, and independent living skills. Students work with trained peer mentors who are supported by a full-time, on-site Program Coordinator.

"Our efforts complement the existing work of NOVA and attract additional talented students interested in our model of support," noted Lauren Merritt, College Step's Co-Founder.

Prospective students, guardians, and school district personnel interested in this initiative are invited to information sessions on the NOVA Alexandria Campus May 3 & June 7. Attendees will learn about services offered, including the individualized support model, admissions process, and costs.

WHAT: College Steps/NOVA Alexandria Information Session
WHEN: 6:30-7:30 PM, Thursday, May 3 
WHERE: Donald L. Bisdorf Building -- Room 275
PARKING: Lot A4 or A2 on the Campus Map

WHEN: 6:30-7:30 PM, Thursday, June 7
WHERE: Donald L. Bisdorf Building -- Room 196
PARKING: Lot A4 or A2 on the Campus Map

REGISTER: Information Session at NOVA Alexandria Campus

Now accepting applications for fall 2018. Applications submitted before May 15 will be given priority. Additional information: www.CollegeSteps.org.

Contact: Beth McGinn, 202-487-4235, [email protected]

SOURCE College Steps

Related Links

http://www.collegesteps.org