A World of Learning

 

A World of Learning: 

Expanding Your Child’s Knowledge Outside the Classroom

written by Gwen Payne of invisiblemoms.com

 

For many children, true learning begins after the bell rings. If your child is struggling with a particular subject, there are plenty of activities that can help them to learn and explore outside of the classroom - here are a few for you to consider.

 Activities

 Science Experiments

 There are lots of easy science experiments that can be done right in your kitchen to improve a child’s knowledge. For example, you can make homemade slime or volcanoes. These types of activities are not only fun, but they also help children understand basic concepts in science.

Art & Music

Encourage your child’s creativity by signing them up for art or music classes, or if you’re feeling extra creative, you can get involved yourself! There are countless benefits to learning an instrument or participating in the arts. For example, studies have shown that music can improve memory, concentration, and motor skills.

Backyard Activities

You’ll find no shortage of learning opportunities right in your backyard. You could, for example, plant a garden together and learn about the different types of plants, how they grow, and the science behind photosynthesis. Alternatively, you could also set up a bird feeder and observe/catalog the different types of birds visiting.

Nature

Spending time in nature is not only good for your child’s mental health, but it can also be educational. At the local park, you can go on a nature hike and learn about the different types of trees, plants, and animals that live there. You can also visit a nearby farm and learn about where food comes from and how it’s grown.

Games

There are tons of educational games available online or at your local library. These games can help children learn about anything from math and science to history and geography. They can also provide a great way to bond as a family.

Technology

In today’s world, it’s impossible to avoid technology, and while there are some downsides to screen time, there are also many educational apps and websites that can be used to support learning. For example, some apps can help children practice math facts or learn a new language.

A Home Culture of Learning

While it may be difficult to find the time, it’s important to commit to your child’s education and development. Having a plan of attack will ensure your children have quality time with you, and by creating a home culture of learning, you can instill a love of learning in your child that will last a lifetime.

●       Allocate time: No matter how busy your schedule is, it’s important to make time for your child to learn, grow, and develop, regardless of whether it’s 30 minutes in the morning before school or an hour before bedtime.

●       Organization: This might mean setting a daily or weekly schedule, or it might mean creating a designated space in your home for learning. Having a plan will help you make the most of your time.

●       Teachable moments: Take advantage of teachable moments that arise throughout the day, and if your child is interested in a particular topic, take the time to explore it with them. These moments can be some of the most valuable in terms of learning.

Learning to Teach

Gaining a better understanding of how to shape learning can be a gateway to improving kids' opportunities for growth. You could go back to school and get a bachelor of science in education, for example - this would help you to develop important skills, such as instructional practice and learner development. Classes in specific subjects can also give you the knowledge you need to support your child’s learning at home. Online programs offer flexibility and can be a great way to fit learning into your busy life.

Your child's education is important, and there are many ways to support their learning both inside and outside of the classroom. With a little creativity and organization, or by returning to school to upskill yourself, you can make the most of your time and help them succeed.

 

Since 1963, LDA has provided support to people with learning disabilities, their parents, teachers, and other professionals with cutting-edge information on learning disabilities, practical solutions, and a comprehensive network of resources. Learn more at: www.ldasc.org

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Trade School Guide for Students with Disabilities

WRITTEN BY SOPHIE TARRANT | EDITED BY ANA ECONOMIDES

When thinking about jobs, students with disabilities may worry they won't find a good fit. The strong message in high school (or even earlier!) is students must get bachelor's degrees. But college isn’t for everyone — regardless of ability.

And that's OK!

There's no one-size-fits-all way to get to a great future. For example, trade or vocational schools offer focused, career-driven education full of opportunities.

Read on to learn more about applying to and attending trade school as a disabled student.

Skip to popular topics on this page: Benefits of Trade School for Students With Disabilities | How to Find the Right Program and School | Transitioning to Postsecondary Education | Paying for Trade or Vocational School | Accommodations and Support for Students with Disabilities | Building Your Trade School "Success Team" | What Rights Do Students with Disabilities Have? | Career Planning for Students with Disabilities

Benefits of Trade School for Students With Disabilities

Trade schools can provide the perfect learning environment for students with disabilities. Programs tend to focus on a subject the student is passionate about rather than a wide variety of topics. They also often have hands-on learning with small class sizes and short timelines.

How to Find the Right Program and School

The school you attend can have a massive effect on your future career. But, making sure you choose the right one can be tricky. Living with a disability can make it feel harder still. Only you know what your perfect school and program would look like.

Keep the following points in mind when browsing to make the choice a little easier.

Is the Subject Right for You?

Studying something you're passionate about can give you a great head start. Think about where your strengths lie and what excites and inspires you.

Consider whether the job you wish to pursue has any hurdles you might need to jump, and if so, how you will do that.

You can also speak with professionals to learn more about the day-to-day reality of life on the job. Online forums, social media groups, and trade organizations can help you meet them.

Is the Program Up to Date?

When browsing programs, dig into each school's catalog to see what it covers. Some may be more hands-on, whereas others focus on classroom learning.

It's also crucial that the school is up-to-date on industry trends, techniques, and laws.

Ask when the curriculum was last updated and about any links the school has to local businesses. This could be vital when you're looking to set up internships or other work experience.

Is the School Accredited?

Accreditation is another important consideration by relevant organizations or government entities. Accredited schools must prove their classes, facilities, and faculty meet high standards.

Not only is accreditation a mark of quality, but it also affects other parts of the school experience. For example, without accreditation, schools cannot offer federal financial aid.

Not all trade programs are accredited because it's a costly process. Further, many beauty schools aren't accredited but have the state's approval.

Does the School Provide Resources for Students with Disabilities?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires schools to accommodate students with disabilities. But, especially in postsecondary schools, students may need to seek accommodations out.

Don't be nervous to ask schools how they help students with disabilities. If they don't have rules in place, you may find they're less equipped to serve your educational needs.

See our Resources and Support for Students with Disabilities section for information about what schools can do.

Does the Faculty Provide Adequate Support?

A faculty who cares for students and provides them with support is another sign of a great school.

Schools can show their support in many ways. For instance, they can ensure students with disabilities have academic and career help. Schools can also train teachers in working with students with needs.

Some schools hire specialized staff to work with disabled students. Again, don't be afraid to ask your prospective school more about this when making your choice.

Transitioning to Postsecondary Education

As Benjamin Franklin once said, "failing to plan is planning to fail." Going from high school to postsecondary education is exciting, but it can be daunting, too.

The earlier you start preparing, the smoother the process should be. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) recommends students start planning for postsecondary education in middle school.

But, if you haven't considered your move until now, don't worry too much — there's still time!

Many high schools have resources to help with the transition to postsecondary school. Be sure to ask your teachers, support workers, and other caregivers for help.

In addition, there are many things you can do yourself to make the move easier. For example:

• Think about your strengths and understand your learning style. Is there anything you'd like to improve or work on before you advance to the next level of education?
• Brush up on social and personal skills, like confidence, time management, and communication.
• Know how and when to discuss your needs and how to ask for accommodations. Learn to speak and act on your behalf, ask for help when needed, and make informed decisions.
• Read up on your rights as a student with disabilities
• Keep your personal, medical, and educational records up to date.
• Hold on to examples of work you're proud of.
• Take part in activities and courses that might help your application to trade school.

Comprehensive transition and postsecondary (CTP) programs and funding are also available for students with intellectual disabilities. These allow those students to participate in traditional college courses and student life.

Paying for Trade or Vocational School

Trade schools typically offer shorter, less expensive programs than traditional four-year colleges. Additionally, several financial aid options are available to students with disabilities. These include federal aid, grants, student loans, scholarships, and more.

The first step toward getting federal financial aid is completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Completing and submitting the FAFSA gives you access to federal support. Plus, many states, colleges, and private providers also use the information to determine your eligibility for other aid.

Student Loans

You might be offered a student loan when applying for federal financial aid. This money must be paid back, usually with interest.

There are a variety of different federal student loans available, including:

• Direct Subsidized Loans based on financial need
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans not based on financial need)
• Direct PLUS Loans help pay for education expenses not covered by other financial aid
• Direct Consolidation Loans allow you to combine all your student loans into one

For more information, visit the federal government’s Student Aid website. You may also want to compare loans from banks, credit unions, and other institutions.

Grants

While loans must be repaid, grants are typically given without needing repayment.

But, there may be some situations where a grant does need to be repaid.

For example, if you get a grant based on completing an obligation and fail to do so, you may owe your grantor.

A variety of grants are available for students with disabilities, including federal Pell Grants (open to all students), Landmark College grants (specializing in students with dyslexia, ADHD, and ASD), and the federal TRIO Student Support Services program (for low-income students, students with disabilities, and first-generation students). The requirements for each grant varies, so research your options before applying.

Scholarships for Students with Disabilities

While grants and scholarships don't need to be repaid, they aren't the same. Grants are typically awarded based on financial need. In contrast, scholarships are often based on academics, special skills, extracurriculars, and more.

Many scholarships focus on specific disabilities, geographical areas, or academic specialties. Here are a few available right now.

• The Wells Fargo Scholarship Program for People with Disabilities: This award gives full-time students up to $2,500 and part-time students up to $1,250 It's available to those with an identified disability enrolled in postsecondary education.
• The American Council of the Blind (ACB) Scholarship: The ACB awards $2,000-$7,500 to students who are legally blind, have a 3.0 GPA, and are involved in their school or community.
• The AbbVie CF Scholarship:This scholarship awards 40 exceptional students with Cystic Fibrosis $3,000. Two students receive a Thriving Student Scholarship, winning an additional $22,000 each.
• The AlphaOne Powering Education Scholarship: This scholarship provides $2,000 to three postsecondary students in Maine each year. You must have a disability, have a B average or equal GPA, and acceptance to a postsecondary school.
• The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) Scholarships: Each year, OAR offers several $3,000 awards for students with autism. They also provide information on many other scholarships available to autistic students.
• The Sleep Family $1,500 Scholarship for Students with Disabilities: This scholarship is awarded annually to a student who has a medically recognized disability, is currently enrolled in or planning to attend a 2-4 year program, community college, or other eligible program in the U.S., and has a minimum GPA of 2.5.

Work-Study programs

Federal Work-Study programs encourage community service and part-time jobs related to your studies.

Accommodations and Support for Students with Disabilities

The ADA requires schools to accommodate students with disabilities so they can succeed.

Your accommodations are specific to your educational, physical, and mental needs. But, here are just a few examples of the resources your school could provide.

An Accessible Campus

One of the best ways a school can help students is by making the campus comfortable and accessible.

• Does it have ramps, handrails, and elevators available for those who need them?
• Are accessible restrooms available?
• Does the school have a quiet, calming space for students when they feel overwhelmed?

Access to Adaptive Tools, Equipment, and Software

Adaptive tools and technology can also make school better for students with disabilities. These could include screen readers, audiobooks, speech recognition programs, and much more.

Test and Exam Support

Exams are always stressful, but students with disabilities may feel extra strain. Schools can help by giving students extra time for tests and access to tools like screen readers.

Student Housing

Look at the dorms if you plan to live on campus.

• Are they accessible and comfortable?
• Is there adequate parking?
• Is it quiet enough to allow you to work comfortably, or even, perhaps, too quiet?
• Will you feel overwhelmed or isolated?

If you plan to live off-campus, consider travel time and what nearby parking (or public transit) is like.

General Support

There are many other ways schools can make learning safe and comfortable for students with disabilities. These can include priority registration, a reduced course load, and note-takers.

Building Your Trade School "Success Team"

A great support network can make all the difference when taking the leap from high school to postsecondary education. So, surround yourself with people who understand you and your disability.

This assistance can come from many different places, including:

Family and Friends

Your family and friends know you best and play a key role in helping you achieve academic success. They may be able to help with finances, organization, chores, and more. So, having your loved ones around is one of the best ways to stay on track.

Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) helps people with disabilities achieve their goals for employment and independence. They can connect you with local services and resources to help you get the most out of your education.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments may also ease the financial burden.

Mental Health Services

Starting at a new school can feel overwhelming. So, be aware of your school's mental health and medical services before you begin. Whether you need medication or someone to talk to, trained professionals can help.

Tech Support

There's nothing more frustrating than having technical difficulties during an assignment. Familiarize yourself with your school's IT department so you know who to call in times of need.

If your school doesn't have a specific tech team, ask your friends and family to help instead.

What Rights Do Students with Disabilities Have?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) all work to ensure disabled people maintain the same rights and have access to the same educational standards as all other students.

Some of the rights these regulations focus on are:

• To have equal access to postsecondary education
• To not be discriminated against in any way
• To participate in and enjoy the benefits of their chosen school
• To have an accessible education
• To have appropriate accommodation
• To bring a service animal to school with them
• To have information about your disability kept private

Required Documents and Disclosures

In elementary, middle, and high school, you didn't need to disclose your disabilities. Instead, provisions may have been made by your guardians and teachers.

You may have had an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan to ensure the school met your needs.

But, these plans end after high school. Then, you must apply for accommodations. As part of this, you need to give your school documentation and disclosures.

Schools want to support and provide you with the best experience possible. So, you must tell the truth when discussing your disabilities. That said, you still have the right to privacy and don't need to disclose every little thing.

Each school has its own requirements. But, most ask for documentation from a doctor or another licensed professional.

It may also be helpful to explain how your disability impacts your academic career. Further, describe accommodations you've found helpful that you'd like them to provide, too.

Career Planning for Students with Disabilities

Of course, the goal of all this hard work is to graduate from school and launch a long and successful career. You should start considering the next steps in your journey before you graduate.

In fact, there's never been a better time to start than now.

In 2021, 19.1% of people with disabilities were employed. Meanwhile, 63.7% of people without disabilities had jobs.

Students with disabilities often face challenges during their job searches. But, more workplaces are making changes for the safety and comfort of disabled employees.

Job Searching and Resume Tips

Many people find employment through job sites like Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn.

There are also several disability-specific job search sites, such as Chronically Capable, Inclusively, Ability Jobs, Disabled Person, and RecruitDisability.

When looking for an employer, find a good fit for you. Be mindful of the environments that suit you best. For example, if you find being on your feet all day painful, avoid roles that involve a lot of standing or walking.

Find out if a company's premises are accessible or if any rules or dress codes make you uncomfortable. Check review sites like Indeed and Glassdoor to see if disabled employees have spoken about their experiences.

Other avenues to finding employment don't involve going online. Many trade schools provide career guidance and placement opportunities for their students. Additionally, DVRS can assist. Speak to your educators and mentors to gather their advice, too.

When applying for jobs, you need a resume, proof of qualifications, and references. You may also need a cover letter. Format these in a cohesive way to present a complete package to employers. You don't need to disclose your disabilities at this stage, though you can.

Dealing With Stigmas or Discrimination in School and the Workplace

As much as we'd like to think that there's no stigma around disability in today's world, that isn't always the case. You may run into ignorance or prejudice. Even those who would have your back may not see microaggressions or other issues.

This can lead to people with disabilities hiding their needs or discomfort. They may not disclose their disabilities in the first place for fear of backlash.

It's vital to stand up for your rights. Know your worth, both as a person and as an employee. Most of all, believe in yourself and your abilities. Don't be afraid to speak out.

The ADA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act aim to ensure people with disabilities aren't discriminated against at work. If needed, complaints can be filed by visiting the ADA website.

COLLEGE PLANNING GUIDE FOR STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES

COLLEGE PLANNING GUIDE FOR STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES.

Written by: Intelligent.com Higher Education Team 

Learning disabilities present unique challenges when you’re planning to attend college. The National Center for Learning Disabilities conducted a survey in 2016 of 800 parents, and 72% said it was hard finding information about college disability services. For these students, getting the right information and support to excel in college requires a persistent strategy.

In this extensive planning guide, we give you the tools you need to be successful in understanding the college environment for students with learning disabilities as well as your rights and potential accommodations. Whether it’s in-person or online college you’re pursuing, we’ll show you where to find the best resources to achieve your goals.

Common Learning Disabilities Among College Students

There are many learning disabilities that can be challenging in a college environment. Typically, students will work closely with college personnel to navigate their specific condition. Here are some of the most common learning disabilities that often require accommodations.

• ADHD. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a brain development disorder that affects focusing and impulse control. Students with ADHD often struggle with executive deficit disorder as well, which can affect problem solving, multitasking, and time management skills.
• Auditory processing disorder. Also known as central auditory processing disorder, this is difficulty hearing and understanding information.
• Dyscalculia. Students with dyscalculia have trouble understanding numbers, math concepts, and calculations.
• Dyslexia. This is a learning disability where people have trouble recognizing words accurately and also may find reading comprehension difficult.
• Dysgraphia. Dysgraphia is a neurological disorder that makes it difficult to write thoughts in a coherent manner.
• Visual processing disorder. Processing visual information is challenging, and often drawing, copying, or distinguishing differences in letters or shapes is hard.

Challenges Students With Learning Disabilities Face

College students with a learning disability face a variety of challenges at school. For some, admitting they have a learning disability is a challenge to overcome. According to the National Center for Learning Disabilities’ executive summary The State of Learning Disabilities: Understanding the 1 in 5, only 24% of college students told their school that they had a learning disability. But 69% did not say they have a learning disability because they thought they no longer had one, even though people generally don’t stop having learning disabilities.

This can be a significant barrier to success because only a portion of college students with a learning disability are getting the accommodations they need. Reasons why students don’t disclose they have a learning disability include:

• Thinking they’ll be perceived as either lazy or unintelligent.
• Not wanting to be identified as someone who needs help due to their learning disability.
• Not knowing how important accommodations may be for their success in college.
• Not realizing they have a learning disability until they are diagnosed in college.

Another potential reason students with a learning disability may not seek accommodations could be due to the fact that their individualized education plans (IEPs) do not transfer from high school to college. This puts the impetus of petitioning for accommodations solely on the student’s plate.

However, you may be able to transfer some of the accommodations written into your IEP through the Disabled Student Programs & Services (DSPS) office or equivalent department at your college. DSPS will review your IEP and see what accommodations are available at the college level that may be beneficial to the student.

Students may also be able to transfer accommodations from a 504 plan to college. But you should keep in mind that colleges are not obligated to transfer all of the accommodations that were included in an IEP or 504 plan. DSPS offices differ from college to college — some colleges offer excellent support, while others do not.

How Colleges Accommodate Students With Learning Disabilities

As stated earlier, any IEP you might have from high school doesn’t transfer to college. You should still incorporate any necessary accommodations into your IEP or 504 plan prior to graduating high school, though. It will then be up to you to communicate the details of your disability and the accommodations you need to your college.

Also, you may want to modify the accommodations of your high school IEP to ensure that you have access to the best system of support during college. While each campus has different protocols in place for accommodating students, typically you’ll find these common accommodations:

Disability services office

Most colleges have a DSPS office. This is a place where you can discuss your accommodation needs to help you be successful in a college environment. These can include extended time for examinations, a quiet room for test taking, or the use of a reader (someone who can read test questions to the student). You may also need a laptop or other assistive technology devices — some professors don’t allow students to use a laptop in class, but if laptop usage is written into the IEP or 504 plan and the DSPS office allows it, the professor should make an exception.

Individual instruction modifications

Individualized coursework and testing

Classroom accommodations

Additional time

Community disability resource centers

Assistive technology

How to Request Accommodations

Asking for the accommodations you’ll need is the first step when working with your new college. If they understand how to help you, you’ll be better prepared to succeed.

We created a sample request for accommodations form so you can see what they usually look like. Along with your request form,  include related documentation, such as any IEP and other information that will give the disability services office a complete understanding of your situation. Most colleges require an IEP, a 504 plan, a letter from a physician with a diagnosis of a learning disability, and/or an assessment from a psychologist with a diagnosis of the disability.

Advice From an Expert

Raja Marhaba, Founder & CEO of The Jonathan Foundation for Children With Learning Disabilities, LinkedIn.

1. What things should a student with a learning disability consider when selecting a college?

I would highly recommend that you visit the Disabled Student Programs & Services (DSPS) office, meet with the staff, and see what accommodations the college may offer compared to your current IEP or 504 plan. This is very important, as some DSPS offices offer better accommodations than others. You want to make sure you choose the college that provides all the support you need to achieve success.

2. What would you tell a student with a learning disability that believes college is unattainable?

3. Is it important for students to disclose a learning disability?

4. Should students with a learning disability use campus and community resources?

5. What tips would you give a student with a learning disability for succeeding in college?

Know Your Rights

As a student with learning disabilities, you have rights that can protect you. The American Disabilities Act of 1990 was a major step forward in protecting the civil rights of people with disabilities because it made discrimination against people with disabilities illegal. The ADA Amendments Act of 2008 expanded the definition of what qualifies as a disability to include physical or mental impairments that limit “life activities” like reading and learning.

Students with learning disabilities are also protected by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which covers people with “hidden disabilities” that are not readily apparent to others. According to this law, programs that receive federal funding or are conducted by a federal agency must not discriminate against qualified students who have a disability.

If you find that you have been discriminated against due to your disability and you can’t resolve it with your college, you can file an ADA complaint that will be reviewed by the U.S. Department of Justice. It’s also possible to file a discrimination complaint with the Office of Civil Rights (OCR).

Common Assistive Apps for Students With Learning Disabilities

Assistive apps serve as tools to help navigate your learning disability by helping with concentration, speech, and tasks. Our top picks of the best assistive apps to help manage your learning disability are listed below.

The following assistive apps are not replacements for professional medical advice. Please consult a medical provider before making any health-related decisions.

Apps
Focus@Will	Focus@Will plays instrumental music that is scientifically designed to increase focus. Cost: $7.49 per month or $45.00 – $52.49 yearly.	Download: Android | iOS
Verbally	Verbally assists with your conversation and allows the user to communicate by typing when they are unable to speak. Cost: Free, Premium version is $99.99.	Download: Android – Not available | iOS (iPad only)
Photomath	Photomath allows you to scan math problems and see detailed step-by -step solutions to increase comprehension. Cost: $4.99 – $9.99 monthly.	Download: Android | iOS
Spell Better	Spell Better is an app that helps those with dyslexia by automatically correcting words with spelling errors and reordering letters. Cost: $9.99 – $24.99.	Download: Android – Not available | iOS (iPad only)
SnapType	SnapType allows students who have trouble with dysgraphia to take a photo of their workbook and type in their responses. Cost: $4.99.	Download: Android | iOS

Benefits of Online College for Students With Learning Disabilities

Attending an online college offers many benefits to students with learning disabilities who want the opportunity to achieve college success.

One advantage of some online learning programs is their asynchronous nature, which means the class doesn’t meet in real time. This gives someone managing a learning disability the time to process the information they want to understand. Using email also allows for a longer response time. In addition, when the pressure of real time is removed, often a student can fully participate with the rest of their class.

Other advantages of working online are the opportunity to use assistive technology to convert written words into an audio format or to review lessons multiple times versus listening once in a lecture setting. Also, working in a comfortable environment and being able to schedule your time to work on the class allows you to navigate the flow of coursework at a pace that works for you.

Scholarships and Financial Resources for Students With Learning Disabilities

Besides the challenges students face in managing their learning disability, added financial expenses can be a consideration. The scholarships featured below are available specifically to students with learning disabilities.

• Anne Ford Scholarship. This $10,000 scholarship is granted over a four-year period to high school graduates who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree. The Anne Ford Scholarship is awarded to students who have financial need, have a learning disability or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD, and want to make a positive contribution to their community. Deadline: April 10, 2022

• Allegra Ford Thomas Scholarship. This $5,000 scholarship is awarded over a two-year period to a graduating high school student who enrolls in a two-year community, vocational, or technical college. Applicants must show financial need, have a learning disability or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD, and express how their future career will impact their community. Deadline: April 10, 2022

• Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation. These scholarships range from $500 to $2,500 and can be used for tuition, books, and other assistive resources. Students must have a reading or language disability similar to dyslexia. Students must be planning to attend an accredited undergraduate, technical, or community college and to pursue a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) degree. Deadline: February 28, 2022
• Alpha One Powering Education Scholarship. This scholarship is for high school graduates in Maine who have a documented disability and plan to pursue undergraduate or graduate study. Award payments are made after the first term is completed to students who have maintained at least a 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Your high school transcript, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay about your disability experience are required to apply. Deadline: April 1, 2022
• INCIGHT Scholarship. Students must be current California, Oregon, or Washington residents to apply for the $500 renewable award. Applicants should be attending a university, community college, or vocational school. Community involvement is emphasized with recipients agreeing to complete 30 hours of community service or volunteer at an INCIGHT event. Deadline: April 15, 2022

Additional Resources

Many organizations that focus on learning disabilities advocate for and provide support to give college students additional help. We have listed some of the largest organizations here as additional resources to use both during your college years and after graduation.

DREAM. Disability Rights, Education, Activism, and Mentoring (DREAM) is a national organization that is for all college students with disabilities who are pursuing higher education options. Sponsored by the National Center for College Students with Disabilities, DREAM  advocates for students with disabilities and provides support to campus groups and individuals.

NCCSD. National Center for College Students with Disabilities is a federally funded national center that provides information to undergraduate and graduate students with disabilities. Some of the topics in the NCCSD training center include webinars about disability as diversity and disability law and training on disability documentation.

AHEAD. Established in 1977, the Association on Higher Education and Disability® (AHEAD) has more than 4,000 members in all 50 states and 10 countries who are disability professionals. AHEAD provides members a database with access to more than 5,600 legal cases, a career center, and professional development webinars. AHEAD also features an annual conference, an online newsletter, and a searchable membership directory.

LDA. The Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA) creates opportunities for people with learning disabilities through education, advocacy, and support. The organization encourages the early identification of learning disabilities and supports interventions for individuals with learning disabilities.