TIER 2 CROSSINGPOINTS SUMMER BRIDGE PROGRAM AT A GLANCE

Program Purpose

The overarching purpose of the CrossingPoints Summer Bridge Program is to provide college-age students with intellectual disabilities a structured opportunity to experience, explore, and develop skills for pursuing postsecondary education at an institution of choice. The program takes place during the two UA summer terms (June and July) following the University summer school calendar. Participating students reside in UA dorms and participate in curriculum that is a blend of CrossingPoints-specific courses and can select up to two UA courses based upon eligibility and interests. Enrolled students will have the opportunity to deepen and hone their self-advocacy and self-determination skills in order to function with a greater degree of independence in areas of social integration, independent living, employment, and academics at UA or in one of two local IHEs of their choice (Shelton State Community College or Stillman College) or at a postsecondary program of choice with follow-along services provided by CrossingPoints personnel for the project duration. Then participants will be recruited from UA's two partner Local Education Agencies (LEAs), LEAs in the high poverty Black Belt region and other rural counties of Alabama as well as elsewhere in the State of Alabama and the nation. ​In addition, students, along with their undergraduate mentors, participate in recreation activities and supported community outings.

Program Cost

The Program costs as stipulated in the student's letter of admission must be paid in full for the duration of the term(s) specified.

How to apply for the CrossingPoints Summer Bridge Program

The University of Alabama's CrossingPoints Summer Bridge program is a model pipeline program for students with intellectual disabilities, ages 19+ years formerly eligible for special education services under IDEA who wish to pursue postsecondary education in a 2-year, 4-year or at comprehensive institution of higher education.
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Click the button below to request information about the application process or to arrange a site visit.

Independent Living

​CrossingPoints Summer Bridge students reside in the University of Alabama residence halls for the entire 8 weeks of the summer term. As such Summer Bridge students learn independent living skills in context. These skills include budgeting, meal preparation, doing laundry, taking care of one's living space,socializing with peers and other dorm residents, planning use of one's free time, etc.

Academics

CrossingPoints Summer Bridge program participants comprise a unique sub-population of college students whose needs for postsecondary education have not previously been explicitly addressed within the existing models of postsecondary programs. As such, as a pipeline program, the CrossingPoints Summer Bridge is intended to prepare program participants for the rigors of postsecondary education. Summer Bridge students participate in both program-specific courses and at least two UA courses.

Employment Training/Internships

Exploring and developing employment-related skills

​RECREATION COMMUNITY ACCESS

​Leisure/Recreation Exploration with PARA