Unique Georgian program helps those with cognitive disabilities and learning challenges

Nov. 25, 2015

Allie Webster (pictured inset) used to fear that she would never fit in with the rest of her family. Diagnosed with Asperger’s, part of the autism spectrum disorder scale, Allie says her shyness and feeling of being different worried her considerably.

“I felt that I could never belong in my family – the rest of them seemed so successful compared to me,” she says.

Today the Collingwood native is an alumna of Georgian’s Community Integration through Co-operative Education (CICE) program.

The two-year postsecondary certificate is for students with cognitive disabilities and learning challenges who require academic accommodation and modifications for success. Many students blossom when provided with the skills and opportunities to accomplish things on their own, says program co-ordinator Renee Ferguson.

“Many students who have traditionally been unable to access postsecondary education can now experience college through the CICE program. Our team offers students tutoring support and individualized academic accommodation and modification,” she says.

The program is available at both the Barrie and Orillia campuses.

Those interested in the Orillia Campus intake, which starts in September, can learn more at an information session being held at the campus on Community Night on Tuesday, Dec. 15 from 5 to 7 p.m.