IN Colorado Initiative for Inclusive Higher Education

In supports the development of Inclusive Higher Education pathways for students with intellectual disabilities In Colorado. Prior to In's inception, college pathways were not an option for students with id In Colorado. Today there are three pathways: elevate - arapahoe community college, goal - university of northern Colorado and the office of Inclusive services at university of Colorado - Colorado springs. Currently, statewide there are over 80 students enrolled across the programs focused on 4 areas: academic growth, social development, independence, and career advancement. Through 2022 there have been 32 graduates earning a comprehensive Higher Education certificate with a focus In a variety of fields such as healthcare, communications, photojournalism, early childhood Education, human services and advocacy. In 2021, In completed a statewide needs assessment to determine barriers faced by residents of Colorado In accessing Higher Education. Specific assessments were completed to identify barriers to students of color, varying socio-economic status and those within rural communities. As a result of this needs assessment, In worked with the state to pass legislation giving funding and support to expand pathways In Colorado. The legislation will allow In, In 2023 to develop a grant program for colleges/universities across the state to apply for the critical funds needed to establish Inclusive Higher Education programs. In continues to be committed to expansion along with statewide Education and outreach.

The Inclusive Education and outreach program focuses on collaborations with prospective students, families, k-12 educators and community partners to redefine expectations for students with intellectual disabilites and break down false stereotypes that students with id cannot attend college. The program works to raise awareness that college is a realistic goal for students with id, highlighting the options now available In Colorado. The program puts an emphasis on engaging with prospective students with id and their families to learn about the college programs In Colorado and what the needed steps are to prepare for college, including early inclusion, academic preparation, self-advocacy, and social independence.

In oversees and leads the Colorado Inclusive Higher Education consortium. The group is made up of key stakeholders who are working to promote Inclusive college access In Colorado. In, current college and university partners, Colorado department of Higher Education (cdhe), Colorado division of vocational rehabilitation (dvr) meet to share progress and continue to develop best practices, conduct program evaluation and onboard new colleges and universities looking to establish Inclusive Higher Education themselves. The consortium collectively has established a statewide credential recognized by cdhe for students who complete Inclusive Higher Education, worked to gain required status for students to be able to take advantage of financial aid and developed financial resources for students and families through state support agencies and scholarships