Program Description
SPCC’s Compass Education Program is an academic-based program for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Our purpose is to help students gain the needed math, reading, writing and soft skills required for higher education and employment. As a transition step from the basic Compass Education classes, we offer pathway programs (Academies) that support students through specific Continuing Education courses. Prospective students for Compass Education must be readers with the goal of transitioning to a higher level of education and/or employment.
About the Program
- Year round
- Customized for students
- Develop soft skills
- Prepare for employment
- Prepare for higher education
Who can enroll?
- Adults who attended Occupational Course of Study (OCS), Transition to Adulthood (TTA) courses, or followed a Individualized Education Plan (IEP) in high school
- Readers with the goal of higher education or employment
Learning Academies
After completing the Compass Education program, students interested in enrolling in higher education opportunities can participate in one of our Compass Education Learning Academies. These pathways provide a structured, supported transition to and through one of the following: Food Service Academy; Heritage Arts Production Academy; Aquaponics Academy; and Pet Care for Retail Academy.
- The Food Service Academy prepares students for a career in the food service industry. Emphasis will be placed on attitude development, sanitation and safety, food service terminology and procedure, tools and equipment, and basic food preparation. Students completing this program will also sit for the ServSafe Food Handling certificate.
- The Heritage Arts Academy trains students in the production of sellable works of art and methods of marketing. The course will focus on the history and trends of the art, practice in selected heritage arts, and fabricating and marketing goods.
- The Aquaponics Academy introduces students to a sustainable way of growing plants and raising fish in a recirculating ecosystem. Skills learned can translate to other areas within the agricultural industry. (Available Spring 2022)
- The Pet Care Retail Academy teaches students the skills needed to work in an array of businesses providing services to pets. Core topics include animal behavior, grooming techniques, handling/restraining of animals, customer service, and recordkeeping. (Available Fall 2022)
Enrollment
To enroll in our Compass Education program, please contact the program coordinator, Robin Rowland, to schedule an interview and placement assessment.
704.290.5813