RAISE Program
The Raising Aspirations through an Inclusive Student Experience (RAISE) program is an inclusive post-secondary course of study for young adults with disabilities ages 18-24 that offers a unique opportunity to gain additional skills for employment, higher education, and independent living.
RAISE at RVC
RAISE is a one-year, two-semester program that allows students to participate in an inclusive college experience. Students participate in a course of study that includes career readiness, college prep, and life-skills-focused coursework. The program has a strong emphasis on social inclusion. This is accomplished through the engagement of participants with same-age peers and the general campus community through a combination of coursework, activities, and social opportunities.
RAISE creates pathways for students to achieve life and career success through the development of educational, personal, and vocational skills while fostering personal growth and social engagement within the campus community.
The specific objectives of RAISE are to provide students with:
- An enriched collegiate experience
- An interactive and inclusive environment
- Learning activities that transfer to lifelong independent living skills
- Work ethics necessary for gainful employment
- Self-respect and knowledge of individual strengths
- Empowerment through education
Contact Us
- Disability Support Services
- (815) 921-4125
About the Program
Program Eligibility
Prospective students who wish to be considered for the RAISE program must complete an application and screening process to ensure that they are appropriate for the program and can meet all established program objectives. Final candidate selection will be at the discretion of the Program Coordinator. Please note that one’s admission into the program does not guarantee success. Program progression and individual student outcomes will be dictated by the student’s overall performance and ability to meet the established program goals.
Appropriate candidates for the RAISE program should:
- Be between the ages of 18-24 (exceptions may be made at the discretion of the Program Coordinator)
- Have a history of receiving special education services
- Have a documented intellectual or developmental disability
- Have reading, math, and written language skills at or above a third-grade level
- Be able to follow the Rock Valley College code of conduct
- Be able to manage all self-care needs
- Have sufficient emotional regulation skills to participate in and adjust to all aspects of the program and not require mental health support while attending the program
- Be capable of interacting respectfully with peers and instructors in academic settings
- Demonstrate the maturity and self-sufficiency needed to navigate the college environment with minimal support
- Have an outside support system and stable, reliable housing
- Be motivated and interested in setting and attaining educational and/or career goals
- Display a strong work ethic and willingness to challenge themselves
Note: The RAISE program can provide some physical and mobility accommodations, but as the program is already modified, it does not provide IEP accommodations.
Course of Study
Students enrolled in the RAISE Program will complete four courses. Students must be motivated and want to work or attend college, as this program is to prepare individuals for gainful employment and/or a successful transition to college. To complete the program requirements and obtain a RAISE Certificate of Achievement, students must satisfactorily complete Financial Literacy, Planning for College and Career Success, Personal Empowerment, and Technology for College and Beyond.
The RAISE certificate program consists of four classes that emphasize building skills that are essential for student success. These courses teach students how to self-advocate for themselves, how to work toward their goals, how to be self-sufficient, and how to build the soft skills that are crucial for employment success. The RAISE Program includes the following classes:
- STU 015 – Personal Empowerment
- STU 017 – Planning for College and Career Success
- FIN 015 – Financial Literacy
- CIS 015 – Technology for College and Beyond
All RAISE classes are offered on Tuesday and Thursday mornings during the fall and spring semesters during the time periods of 9-10:15 and 10:30-11:45.
The RAISE Program is a one-year (two semester) program.
As the student progresses through the program, they will be awarded the following:
- Individual certificates of completion for each course successfully completed
- A RAISE Certificate of Achievement (granted upon successful completion of all program requirements)
This certificate does not offer higher education credits towards a college degree.
How to Apply
Students and their school case manager (if applicable) must complete the RAISE Program Application. There is a student and school portion of the application. Once the application has been received and reviewed, the Program Coordinator will notify the applicant of their acceptance status. In some cases, students may need to complete an informational interview with the Program Coordinator to determine acceptance into the program. After acceptance into the program, students will need to complete intake paperwork before they can begin classes.
Application Due Dates:
- March 15 for fall semester
- October 15 for spring semester
Program Cost & Funding
Tuition for RAISE courses is $300 per class, which typically includes all instructional materials.
Students are eligible to apply for scholarships through the Rock Valley College Foundation.
Support Services
Rock Valley College students have access to a variety of academic support services, from tutoring to personal success and counseling.