Community of Inclusive Scholars

Community of Inclusive Scholars is a college-based transition program funded by MA Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative. Partnering districts include member districts of the North Shore Education Consortium and the SEEM Collaborative. CIS offers a fully inclusive college experience”to students 18 – 22 years old, who will either not receive a diploma, continue to remain MCAS eligible, or have passed MCAS but still qualify for special education services.

Students enrolled in this program:

• Are eligible to take non-credit and credit courses alongside their non-disabled peers
• Are fully matriculated students at Salem State University
• Develop self-determination and self-advocacy skills
• Continue developing academic, social, and functional skills
• Participate in career planning and on-campus internships.
• Participate in campus wide activities, clubs and organizations
• Participate in the Gassett Fitness Center

Evidence shows that students benefit academically and transition to young adulthood more readily when they have the opportunity to engage in all college-related activities (e.g., establishing new social networks, participating in campus-wide events, learning to use public transportation to and from campus, completing course assignments, obtaining employment) rather than staying at high school. Student participation in this grant program may be incorporated into a student’s transition program, as determined through the school district’s special education process. If you are interested in participating in the Community of Inclusive Scholar’s program, please contact your district’s special education office.