Enrollment is now open for the fall semester of the RAISE program at Rock Valley College. 

RAISE is a post-secondary education program for youth ages 18 and up with intellectual disabilities. The goal of the program is to provide these students with a college experience while fostering independent living and soft skills development.  RAISE strives to foster an avenue towards gainful employment and an adult lifestyle. 

Students in the program typically take two courses per semester.  Upon successful completion of the six core courses, students receive a “Certificate of Achievement in Career Readiness.”

Six courses will be available for the Fall 2021 semester: Career Exploration & Career Skills Development, Personal Empowerment, Safe and Healthy Living, Community Integration, and Financial Literacy.  Classes will meet Wednesday and Friday mornings at the RVC main campus, 3301 N. Mulford Road, from August 18 through December 10, 2021.

“The RAISE program gives students with intellectual disabilities a chance to increase their independence, promote lifelong learning and improve work readiness skills,” said Lynn Shattuck, the program’s Director.  “We have seen an increase in student enrollment the last few years, so we know there is a need for meaningful, post-secondary education for those with disabilities.”

The RAISE program is particularly interested in reaching those individuals who have left high school and are looking for the next step in transitioning into adulthood.  In addition to preparing students for independent and semi-independent living and working, students are also empowered to take advantage of the social aspects of campus and community life. 

Participants aged 18 through 22 may participate in RAISE at no personal cost as part of their public school district’s Individualized Education Plan that permits those with disabilities attend public school until age 22.  RAISE currently has students participating from several school districts including Rockford Public Schools, Harlem High School, Belvidere and Belvidere North High Schools, Winnebago High School, and Honenegah High School.  The program is open to all young intellectually disabled individuals in the community.  Tuition is $300 per course, but scholarships are available. 

To inquire about enrollment through your school district or independently, please call 815-921-2371 or visit www.RockValleyCollege.edu.

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