Central College READI Program helping students with intellectual disabilities

PELLA, Iowa — Central College in Pella has a pilot program for students with intellectual disabilities that’s breaking new ground.

It’s changing the lives of young people, like Jackson Perkins and Bella Van Gorp.

“Without something like this, he wouldn’t have learned these skills, ” says Jackson’s mom Stef Perkins, “because mom and dad would’ve have been there doing it for him all the time.”

Jackson is autistic. He works in the cafeteria and takes baking classes.

Bella has Downs Syndrome, is a cheerleader, and works at a local school.

“I think everybody deserves an option,” says Bella’s mom Jen Van Gorp, “it’s not so much that everybody wants their child with a disability to come to Central College, but there is dignity in having a choice.”

Bella and Jackson aren’t the only ones whose lives are changing. Mentors like Grace Hoiffman say it’s been eye opening.

“I think it’s vital to acknowledge that no matter what the program looks like, there’s something to benefit everyone. So whether you’re the student that gets a college experience that maybe would not have been possible without this program, or you’re the student who gets an opportunity to work with someone, or you’re the teacher who wouldn’t have had the student in your classroom otherwise, every single person who is exposed to this program is benefiting in some way, shape or form”

If you or someone you know is interested in exploring a similar experience you can contact Central College by emailing admissions@central.edu. There are also several resources families of students with intellectual disabilities can utilize to find college programs and student aid .

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