College of Adaptive Arts

The mission of students and staff at the College of Adaptive Arts (CAA) is to change perceptions of ability while providing educational opportunities previously and historically unavailable to the adult students served. CAA moves that mountain from its location at the West Valley College campus in Saratoga, CA, and through online classes available statewide, nationwide, and globally. We offer a unique new model for innovative, lifelong learning opportunities in a collegiate environment for adults of all ages, including students who happen to have Down syndrome, autism, and the whole beautiful range of differing abilities.

There are no age or skill level requirements. The main requirements for registration are the minimum age of 18 and student/family/caregiver commitment to follow CAA policies. Students do not "age out"; student ages range from 18-73. There is no limit to the number of quarters or years adults may attend. Enrolled students may take one class, return later to register for more classes, or attend every quarter of our four-quarter school year based on student choice.

Courses in 10 areas of study provide instruction through a copyrighted model targeting core areas of social cognitive ability. All levels of learners are welcome as students learn at their individual paces and with personalized resource needs. Students continue ongoing adult education toward the achievement of private and non-transferrable credits toward undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate diplomas meeting students' individual needs for personalized resources and goals in Communications, Science and Technology, Health and Wellness, Visual Arts, TV/Film, Music, Dance, Library Arts, Theatre, and Business. Credits are experience and classroom-based. Home activities are optional, with no homework requirements or graded assignments.

Students continue accessing skills as they work forward in their area(s) of emphasis at their own pace and level based on developmental needs and progress. Classes operate online and out of a central on-campus location. Other learning opportunities include inclusive community collaborations, special events, and workshops.

Most of CAA's students receive or have received vocational training and ILS services elsewhere. Many local students attend day programs and college classes at other locations and have existing housing and transportation arrangements in the area. CAA does not provide transportation or housing. CAA is not a vocational studies program, day program, recreational/respite activity, or group home and does not offer one-on-one caregiving (although students may attend classes with a caregiver if necessary). Instead, CAA is a state-vendorized, 501(c)3 charitable nonprofit offering educational options in a collegiate environment for adults of all ages based on the community college model.

Steps to becoming a CAA Cardinal start with a site tour and submission of current registration paperwork, followed by the set-up of a new online class registration account and confirmation of completed paperwork through the CAA registrar. Prospective conserved students must attend the live or online site tour and registration set-up meetings, including their primary support provider/document co-signer if necessary. Go to www.collegeofadaptivearts.org to sign up for a tour date and time. Check out CAA's sports and cheer teams, recent class activities, and student events on Facebook or our website.