The purpose of this project is to develop, implement, evaluate, and disseminate a model program for providing (a) an inservice training to secondary school teachers and counselors about Postsecondary opportunities available to students with disabilities, who are also members of minority groups and (b) an academic enrichment program to prepare students for successful Postsecondary outcomes.

The major objectives of the project are:

• Component 1 - Outreach Strategies: (a) To provide inservice training to secondary school special education teachers and counselors about the range of Postsecondary opportunities available to students; and (b) to assist special education staff in preparing a plan to inform parents of the transition to college process.
• Component 2 - College Preparatory Enrichment Program (a) To recruit and follow-up secondary school upper division students with disabilities, who are also members of minority groups for a college preparatory program to continue through and after graduation; (b) to improve the academic and Postsecondary outcomes of students with disabilities through participation in a variety of enrichment activities that incorporate basic skill development and life planning options on Saturdays within the university, with monies for transportation and other expenses, provided to participants; (c) to provide in-school tutorial assistance to participants on a daily basis to reinforce academic retention; and (d) to develop interest and awareness of Postsecondary institution opportunities in participants and parents by providing programs, activities, workshops; as well as staff and parent monitored field trips to Chicago area colleges and universities.

The project will involve approximately 75 students with disabilities, who are also minorities, over the three-year project period, including students with learning disabilities, sensory impairments, and physical disabilities. A four-dimensional mode of operation will be utilized incorporating teachers, parents, counselors and Postsecondary administrators to increase the number of students with disabilities entering and successfully completing Postsecondary education, and to promote their improved participation and performance while attending.