The Arc Gateway Program for Adult Learning and Support (PALS) is a career certification program that focuses on career exploration, increased independence, and preparation to enter the workforce. Most applicants would have received special education services in the K-12 setting through an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan and exited their secondary school with a diploma, GED or certifica
te of completion. Career Certification Paths
Administrative Services
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Carpentry Helper
Cleaning & Maintenance
Food Service
Horticulture Studies
Lawn Care & Maintenance
Retail Services
While most students will earn their certification in one year, the program does offer one semester certification tracks. Based on each student’s abilities, PALS staff are able to work the individual, PSC, and other agencies to develop and coordinate a plan for additional college courses that lead to other vocational certification and academic degrees. To ensure that PALS is the best option for each applicant, we require a completed application packet. Individuals wishing to apply to the program should possess a majority of the items listed below. Additional requirements for specific training programs may also be required.
-Desire to obtain community-based employment upon completion of career certification
-Ability to perform hygiene routine independently or has services to provide this support
-Ability to manage medications or has services to provide this support
- Ability to be unsupervised for an extended period of time on a college campus or in the community
-Applicant does not exhibit disruptive behavior
-Ability to communicate with others
-Functional math skills
-Functional reading skills by any mode
-Functional writing skills or a mode to produce written material
-Applicant has had prior vocational experiences that guided him or her to the chosen career path
-Applicant must have a desire to get and keep a job following their career certification training
-Applicant is 18 years or older (or will be 18 at the start of the training session)
-Applicant has exited high school. Applicant can apply while in high school and remain in high school until the start of the training session.
-Applicant has had satisfactory attendance at school and/or in other training programs
-Applicant must be determined eligible based on criteria established under funding opportunity
-Applicant can provide documentation for a diagnosis of a disability
Visit us online at arc-gateway.org/pals