Program for Academic Support and Success
What is the Program for Academic Support and Success (PASS)?
PASS provides an integrated program of early academic and career guidance for students with physical and/or learning disabilities. Sponsored by the Office of Disability Services (ODS), the program offers those in PASS extra support and access to technology and other equipment necessary to help them be successful in college. It is a great opportunity to receive extended orientation to college and to learn about services and support systems offered at BCC to help students be successful.
Am I eligible for PASS?
Students are eligible for and would benefit from PASS services if they have a documented disability and:
- Plan to enroll at BCC part time (3 to 11 credits)
- Require assistance with time management
and organization of study materials - Demonstrate a commitment to consistently
engage in services that are tailored to meet
individual needs.
What does it cost?
The program is free to those who qualify.
What services does PASS offer?
The Transition Academy
The transitional to college can be one of the most important and challenging journeys in a person's life. This extended orientation is designed to acclimate students to BCC's academic programs, support services and faculty, helping students discover more about themselves, their future, and the supports available to them.
- General orientation to BCC
- Workshops to better understand your learning style
- Introduction
- To career decision making
- Seminar on classroom etiquette
- A rap session with mentors
- Assistive technology demonstration
- Sample college course lecture
- Self-advocacy workshop
Family Night
This information session introduces family members to the BCC experience and provides information on how services on the campus can help the student make the most of his or her BCC experience. Two family nights are held during the year. The first highlights transitioning topics and services while the second addresses mid-semester options for support.
Coach Mentoring
Coach mentors provide direct support to students with disabilities to help them develop skills to:
- Schedule and organize time
- Develop effective approaches to course assignments
- Know and apply their best learning style approaches
to a variety of academic situations - Access college resources
- Meet important college timelines such as advisement
and registration
Assistive Technology Lab
Assistive technology (AT) is any device or service that makes academic tasks more manageable for students with disabilities. These devices improve a person's functional capability to complete their coursework. Students are provided with recommendations for appropriate equipment, training and support while using the equipment.
Some available technology at the AT Lab includes:
- Kurzwell Reader for low-vision or dyslexia
- Closed circuit TV text magnifiers
- JAWS screen reader
- Dragon Naturally Speaking
- Adjustable tables
- Braille Lite
- Telepathic 2000
For more information or to register for any of the PASS programs, contact Denyse Wilhelm, Program Specialist at ext. 2589