Chicago's Daley College Wins Funding for Inclusive Programs
Richard J. Daley College in Chicago has received federal funding to create more inclusive classrooms and expand its After 22 program. The initiative supports young adults with disabilities as they transition from high school, signaling a growing institutional focus on postsecondary support.
- The $446,250 in federal Community Project Funding was secured by U.S. Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García to modernize classrooms and expand accessible career training for adults with various disabilities. - The "After 22" program is a comprehensive transition initiative for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have aged out of the Chicago Public Schools system. - In addition to Daley College, the program is a collaboration with the Anixter Center and Special Children's Charities, which both have a long history of providing services and support to Chicagoans with disabilities. - The program's curriculum is designed to provide a holistic college experience that includes academic coursework, life-skills development, and job-readiness training, culminating in internship opportunities. - The funding is intended for "meaningful classroom upgrades and accessibility improvements," which can include applying Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to create more flexible and accessible learning environments for all students. - Data from Chicago Public Schools shows that students with disabilities are more likely to enroll in two-year colleges, highlighting the critical role of institutions like Daley College in postsecondary success. - The first cohort of the "After 22" program, consisting of more than 30 students, is expected to graduate in August. - The program is one of two such initiatives within the City Colleges of Chicago system aimed at supporting students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, alongside Project Wright Access at Wright College.
