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08.22.11 | Bancroft to launch program for college-age students with disabilities
Bancroft Program on Camden County College Campus kicks off in September
Haddonfield, NJ — Students with autism and other disabilities will soon be able to take part in college life, thanks to a new partnership between Bancroft and Camden County College.
The Bancroft Transition Program at Camden County College will provide specialized classes at the college's main campus in Blackwood, N.J., plus work opportunities, interaction with nondisabled peers, and a range of other collegiate experiences. The program's goal: to successfully transition students with neurological disabilities to adult lives and jobs.
"This Bancroft program will enable students ages 18-21 with developmental disabilities who would otherwise remain in their same secondary school setting – in many cases, for seven years – to instead have the opportunity to develop greater independence, communication and social skills, and function successfully in an age-appropriate environment," said Bob Lenherr, Bancroft's senior director of education.
In most cases, tuition is covered by the student's home school district under federal and New Jersey law, so there is no cost to the student's family.
Full- and part-time schedules will be available, based on each student's needs and abilities, and can include half days at the Bancroft School or another secondary education program. The Bancroft Transition Program is person-centered, focusing on each student's strengths and interests, and based on the current research in the field.
Bancroft professionals will use applied behavior analysis (ABA) techniques and other best practices for instruction and classroom management. The program will accept students ages 18 to 21 with intellectual and developmental disabilities – including autism spectrum disorders – who have not yet graduated high school and have current Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
A variety of professionals, including certified teachers, clinicians, job coaches, employers and college personnel, will play active roles in each student's program. Class sizes will not exceed a maximum of 12 students, with a student-to-staff ratio not surpassing 6:1. Related services will also be available, such as speech, physical and occupational therapy, social work case management, counseling and assistive technology. The program will also provide opportunities for employment, unpaid internships and volunteer activities that may lead to employment.
While the program does not offer a college degree, participants will receive training in a wide range of academic and life skills. Moreover, students will receive the transition services they need in order to complete their high-school diploma.
Founded in 1883, Bancroft is a leading service provider for people with neurological challenges.
For more information about the Bancroft Transition Program, please contact Pat Reid at (800) 774-5516 or pried@bnh.org.
About Bancroft
Based in Haddonfield, N.J., Bancroft annually serves 1,300 people with neurological challenges in a wide range of programs. Founded in 1883, the organization has sites in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware. Programs include early childhood, education, vocational, supported employment, structured day programs, rehabilitation, community living, behavioral treatment, and in-home and outpatient services.
Bancroft strives to ensure that every person is given opportunities for lifelong learning and fulfillment. It does this by altering perceptions and supporting people with neurological challenges in achieving their life goals as valued and respected members of our world.