Admission criteria:
Consideration for admission to the EXCEL Partnership program is given to individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Enrolled in a Bridgewater State University EXCEL Program partnering school district
- Applicant’s school district must agree to fund student’s participation in program
- Student is recommended by partnering district as a strong candidate for the program
- Documentation of an intellectual/developmental disability
- Currently receiving special education services in a partnering school district
- Tier 1 - ages 18 to 22, has not passed MCAS requirements
- Tier 2 - ages 20 to 22, has passed MCAS requirements, but still eligible for special education services because of significant functional disabilities, transition needs, etc.
- Demonstrates emotional stability and maturity; no history of disruptive or challenging behavior (the EXCEL Program does not have the personnel required to manage behavioral needs)
- Eagerness to continue learning in a college classroom setting
- Commitment to school/transition program as demonstrated by solid high school attendance record
- Expresses interest in living and working as independently as possible in their community after completing the program; a vision supported by family/guardian
- Desire to build upon self-determination and self-advocacy skills; a vision supported by family/guardian
- Able to identify job-related interests and career goals; ultimate goal is paid employment
- Demonstrates communication skills adequate to interact with others on the BSU campus
- Able to adhere to the BSU Code of Conduct
Additional criteria for students applying to the EXCEL Residence Life program:
- One successful year in the EXCEL Partnership commuter program
- Able to function independently (uses technology, navigates campus, follows own schedule, etc.)
- Functional daily living skills (personal care, grooming, etc.)
- Functional self-advocacy skills (understanding of when to seek support, knowledge of one’s own disability and learning strengths/needs)
- Able to independently recognize and react to emergency situations
- Able to live independent from support staff
- Able to self-administer medications
- Able to make appropriate decisions regarding personal safety
- Able to manage personal belongings (ID, phone, wallet, money, etc.)
- At least a third-grade reading level
- Motivation and willingness to build upon daily/independent living skills
- Adhere to the code of conduct as outlined by BSU Residence Life