CrossingPoints Summer Bridge Program

CrossingPoints Summer Bridge Program is a postsecondary pipeline program for college-age students with intellectual disabilities ages 18+ years from anywhere in the State of Alabama and beyond.  The overarching purpose of the CrossingPoints Summer Bridge Program is to provide college-age students with intellectual disabilities a structured opportunity to experience, explore, and develop skills for pursuing postsecondary education at an institution of choice. The program takes place during the two UA summer terms (June and July) following the University summer school calendar. Participating students reside in UA dorms and participate in curriculum that is a blend of CrossingPoints-specific courses and can select up to two UA courses based upon eligibility and interests. Enrolled students will have the opportunity to deepen and hone their self-advocacy and self-determination skills in order to function with a greater degree of independence in areas of social integration, independent living, employment, and academics at UA or in one of two local IHEs of their choice (Shelton State Community College or Stillman College) or at a postsecondary program of choice with follow-along services provided by CrossingPoints personnel for the project duration. Then participants will be recruited from UA's two partner Local Education Agencies (LEAs), LEAs in the high poverty Black Belt region and other rural counties of Alabama as well as elsewhere in the State of Alabama and the nation. ​In addition, students, along with their undergraduate mentors, participate in recreation activities and supported community outings.