The Path To Independence is:
- An inclusive, two-year, non-degree certificate program offering a college experience to students with intellectual disabilities.
- A collaborative effort of UNR's Nevada Center for Excellence in Disabilities (NCED), the University of Nevada Reno Extended Studies Department, (UNR EXS), Sierra Regional Center (SRC), the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR), Lyon County School District and Washoe County School District.
- Partnering agencies and districts during the 2022-23 academic year include Sierra Regional Center (SRC), Rural Regional Center (RRC), the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR), Lyon County School District. Washoe County School District, Nevada Connections Academy and Bishop Unified School District.
Each student and their invited guests participate in Person Centered Planning (PCP) each spring. The plan determines the level and direction of academic involvement. The STAR (Students Transitioning to Adult Roles) planning process is used, which includes the areas of Academic Enrichment, Independent Living, Self-Determination, Campus & Community Engagement, and Career Development & Employment.
In order to achieve outcomes of employment and independence, the project is structured into three areas:
Academics & Campus Activities
P2I students take University college classes with typical peers. Classroom supports for students in this program are individualized based on need and come from a variety of resources. Students have an educational coach assisting them in class, if needed. In addition, students in the Developmental Disabilities Minor program have the opportunity to earn credits in an independent study class as academic supports or social mentors for Path to Independent students. Regular study sessions are offered for P2I students to get assistance with reading, assignments and homework. In preparation for living a full, productive life, students are encouraged to participate in campus activities such as clubs/organizations and sports activities. Mentors assist them to become active members of the university community.
Employment
Through its collaboration with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), P2I students create an Individual Plan for Employment (IPE). During the four semesters of the program, students prepare for integrated, competitive employment. P2I's employment coordinator takes the lead in these activities:
- Semester 1: Pre-Employment Training (Pre-ETS) planning, job discussion and exploration
- Semester 2: Work experience in a rotation of three internships on campus
- Semester 3: Paid/unpaid internship and/or a student job on campus in an area of interest to student
- Semester 4: Paid/unpaid internship and/or a student job on campus in an area of interest to student; Work with job developer to find post-graduation competitive integrated employment in the community.
Independent Living
An important aspect of college life for all students is learning to live independently. Path to Independence does not currently offer a residential component to the program. Path to Independence staff assists each student to access community services that will lead to the desired independent living outcomes in the PCP. Each semester, one independent living class is provided to P2I students. Topics include Relationships and Sexuality, Self-Advocacy/Self-Determination, and financial literacy topics. In addition, public transportation travel training is available through agency partners.
