Parent’s Transition Guide to College

College life is different from high school and poses different challenges for students with disabilities.  Students must be prepared to assume responsibilities for meeting their class requirements, studying and completing assignments, and learning strategies and study techniques for their college coursework.  Our faculty and staff can assist your son/daughter in this new collegiate endeavor.

Below are some guidelines regarding the transition into the community college system and the accommodations and services that we provide at our Disabled Students Programs and Services (DSP&S) department.

• We recommend that you take a tour of the campus prior to expected enrollment to ensure that Irvine Valley College is the correct “fit” for your son/daughter’s needs.
• In the K-12 system, the schools are governed by IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).  In college, the schools are governed by Title 5.  There are clear differences in the legalities of how services for students with disabilities are provided between the K-12 and higher/college education.
• Services and accommodations will be specialized for each student depending on his/her condition or impairment.
• It is very important to note that college is a big responsibility and that all students must be able to self advocate.  The Disabled Students Programs and Services (DSP&S) staff are here to assist students but they must ask for what they need.  Students who follow the recommendations in the College Self-Advocacy guidelines will have a rewarding outcome at the community college.