Education and training
College Experiences
Students can apply for acceptance to one of two college settings for an inclusive opportunity on a college campus.
For our local region, Westfield State University offers the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative program. MAICEI is a dual enrollment opportunity for students with intellectual disabilities, ages 18-21, who are enrolled in the Chicopee school district. Students enrolled in the MAICEI Program attend WSU for one to four semesters and create individual plans which may include academic, personal, career and social goals. Support is provided by educational coaches and peer mentors. https://www.westfield.ma.edu/offices/academic-affairs/inclusive-concurrent-enrollment-program-ice
An additional college campus available in our area is American International College and its College Steps program. College Steps provides personalized college support for students with learning and social challenges. Their student-centered support utilizes peer mentoring and multidisciplinary collaboration on campus. College Steps is proud to provide a structured educational support model emphasizing thorough planning and thoughtful action. Student mentors are at the center of their model, along with an expert team of professionals for guidance and support. https://www.collegesteps.org/
Office Clerical/Word Processing
In partnership with school-based offices, participants can complete a variety of office tasks that may include sorting, collating, counting, stapling, copying, mailing, and delivering. Data entry training is also available. Crossroads’ partnership with Fairview School has created many rewarding opportunities for skill training, socialization, and the appreciation for community connections.
Social Pragmatics
As young adults try to navigate the post-high school world, they are faced with daily challenges to interact with their community. From daily routines in the home, to work environments and social events, young adults benefit from having functional communication skills.
The Crossroads Program at Fairview coordinates with the building speech therapist to provide a weekly speech group that focuses on social pragmatics. “Pragmatic language refers to the social language skills that we use in our daily interactions with others. This includes what we say, how we say it, and our non-verbal communication (eye contact, facial expressions, body language etc.) and how appropriate our interactions are in a given situation. Pragmatic skills are vital for communicating our personal thoughts, ideas and feelings.” ~Karen Leigh, www.sensationalkids.ie
Goodwill Industries
Participants that demonstrate entry-level work ethics and express a desire to work in competitive employment may fill a paid position at Goodwill Industries. Placements can vary, depending on the needs of the company.
Culinary Exploration
Students have the opportunity to explore their individual skills in the kitchen. From heating leftovers in the microwave to preparing Chicken Francaise for a large group, everyone can learn to prepare food for themselves and others. Internships are sometimes available in the school cafeteria/kitchen for those who seek professional experiences in the culinary arts.
Lupa Zoo
Chicopee Schools has partnered with Lupa Zoo for many years to provide internship opportunities for our students. Interested participants are bused to Lupa Zoo for a full day of responsibilities under the direction of a job coach. These may include animal food preparation, animal food distribution, cleaning cages, cleaning the outside grounds, emptying trash receptacles, and more. You will learn about all the animals in your care and how the zoo operates year-round. Even when there are no visitors at the zoo, the animals need to be cared for by humans. Learn more Lupa Zoo
Digitize Film
Participants can learn to convert film and video tapes onto digital formats for interested customers.
