Helping Adults with Disabilities Succeed
Compass Education supports adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities by helping them build the skills they need to pursue further education or succeed in the workplace.
Through this program, you’ll strengthen your foundation in essential academic areas like reading, writing, and math. You’ll also develop important soft skills that are highly valued by employers— such as effective communication, teamwork, time management, and problem solving. In addition, you’ll have the opportunity to explore and build practical skills related to specific career paths, including pet care, food service, and other hands-on professions.
Whether your goal is to continue your education, enter the workforce, or become more independent in your daily life, Compass Education is a great place to start.
Students who want to continue their education beyond Compass Education Program will be connected with Dr. Courtney Knox, our Access to Achievement Coordinator. Access to Achievement is a state-funded IDD workforce training program that empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to pursue their education and career goals with confidence. For more information, please follow the link below.
The Program Options
Mode
Online/in-person
Prerequisites
None
15%
of adults in NC identify as having a cognitive disability
31%
In 2021, only 31% of adults with IDD were employed in NC
3.2%
Only 3.2%of U.S. adults with IDD are enrolled in college.
Compass Education FAQ
Adults with disabilities who took courses in high school, such as Occupational Course of Study (OCS) or Transition To Adulthood (TTA), or who had an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan. This program is intended for adults who aim to transition to college or the workforce.
You’ll study math, reading, and writing skills. You’ll also learn how to work with others and communicate well. You’ll gain job readiness skills needed for future employment.
To join Compass Education, contact Nikki Myers to set up an interview and reading assessment.
Nikki Myers
nmyers@spcc.edu
704.290.5813
Providing a Path to a Career and a Future
Compass Education is custom designed for adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. As a student in this program, you’ll gain foundational skills in math, reading, and writing — skills that translate to both the workplace and everyday life.
At South Piedmont, we take Compass Education a step farther. After completing the basic Compass Education classes, we offer students the opportunity to participate in one of our career-focused academies. We currently offer academies in food service and pet care. Academies help our students to gain specific skills that lead to job opportunities.
Hands-On Education
I loved working with Christina from Dr. Pressly’s office. She taught us how to care for animals by doing fun activities and games. I learned so much.
Brianna Whorl, ’24 Compass Education Pet Care Academy completer
Learning Academies
After finishing Compass Education classes, you can join our Learning Academies to get ready for jobs in specific fields.
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