<p>Our D has significant cognitive disabilities and will likely not ever attend college in any setting. Yet, like your D, ours has many strengths; she is a caring, nurturing soul with alot of perseverence. She talks continually of attending college like her older brother and it is hard to talk with her about the reality. At 17, we are deep into the IEP/transitioning world that you are experiencing. Our D will hopefully benefit from vocational training and find meaningful work with children as an aide, perhaps.</p>
<p>YOur D will find her success with your help.
We have heard wonderful things about Fairleigh Dickinson here in NJ for kids with learning differences.
Best of luck.</p>
<p>It's not in your neck of the woods, but I just read an article in some pop magazine--People?--about a young woman with Downs who had graduated from Strive U. She had an IQ of 70 and an 11th grade reading level. I remembered the name of the program and googled it:</p>
<p>It sounds like it would be perfect for your daughter when she reaches college age. The kids take one regular college class each year. The young woman took German--her mom speaks it--and art. </p>
<p>All I know about it is what I read in the article, but it does sound like it's near perfect for kids like your d. You might contact Strive U and ask if the staff knows of similar programs in your area.</p>
<p>It is difficult because she doesn't quite fit anywhere. The school that jonri so kindly posted looks wonderful, but it is really geared for kids who are mentally retarded (IQs generally below 70). It's interesting that there are lots of resources out there for lower functioning kids/adults, to teach them life skills and prepare them for group living. My daughter isn't mentally retarded, though, she is low average...and also average in some areas. So, she doesn't really fit in there. </p>
<p>But thank you again for thinking so much about our situation...I really appreciate it!</p>
<p>How about a small, nurturing, non-competitive local school where she could live at home and take one or two classes at a time? In our area there is a small Jesuit college that caters to adults who want to continue their education but also takes kids right out of HS, of course. I heard one of the admissions directors speak at a HS and came away with a very good impression of them. They sounded very warm and caring and involved with all their students and like they truly wanted to help each student succeed. </p>
<p>If you have something small near you, maybe you could call and speak to them about your DD's needs; they may have an guidance office that could help you determine what your DD will need to do in HS to prepare for their school, and you could establish a relationship with them now that might smooth her path later.</p>
<p>One of the Arizona Flagships -- either Univ. of Arizona or Arizona State is known for their programs for different learnng styles. Maybe someone on this thread will know which one.</p>
<p>You might want to review the website of the Center for Learning Differences in NYC:</p>