The Institute for Human Development (IHD) at Northern Arizona University is proud to announce the launch of Supporting College Access, Learning, and Employment (SCALE), a newly funded, five-year initiative supported by a $500,000 U.S. Department of Education grant. The program, based in Flagstaff, Arizona, builds on the success of the earlier Supporting Inclusive Practices in Colleges (SIP-C) project and represents a major step forward in creating inclusive, sustainable pathways for students with intellectual disabilities (ID) to succeed in college and beyond.
SCALE’s mission is to empower individuals with ID to participate and thrive in higher education. Working closely with college campuses and community partners across Arizona, SCALE provides person-centered, student-led supports that promote academic success, self-determination, and meaningful employment after graduation. The program’s long-term goal is to develop a sustainable statewide model for inclusive postsecondary transition.
From SIP-C to SCALE
Since its launch in 2020, SIP-C has enabled dozens of Arizona students with intellectual disabilities to attend college alongside their peers. Building on this foundation, SCALE broadens access across rural and underserved regions and introduces multiple pathways tailored to students’ readiness levels. These include college preparation academies, career exploration, dual enrollment, and direct entry into college or trade programs. Current SIP-C students will continue receiving full support throughout the transition to SCALE.
Core Values and Approach
SCALE’s guiding principles, “Front Door First” and “Set the Bar High,” encourage participants to take full advantage of campus resources while pursuing ambitious academic and personal goals. Each student is matched with a dedicated support team that includes trained staff and peer mentors. Together, they use evidence-based strategies to promote self-advocacy, confidence, and inclusion in all aspects of campus life: attending classes with peers, joining clubs and student organizations, and engaging in intramural activities. Through partnerships with on-campus resources such as TRiO Student Support Services, Student Affairs, and Disability Resources, SCALE ensures that students receive coordinated, comprehensive support.
SCALE students attend partner institutions such as Northern Arizona University, Coconino Community College, Mohave College, and Arizona Western College, pursuing degrees, certifications, or credentials in any field of interest. Through collaboration with the NAU College of Education, the program will also develop a specialized college prep curriculum to strengthen college readiness and lifelong learning skills.
To assist families, educators, and professionals, the program also offers the Accessible Learning and Inclusive Guidelines for Network Success (ALIGNS) Workbook, a free online resource featuring strategies for inclusive transition planning. Click here to access the workbook.
A Vision for the Future
With its combination of individualized supports, community collaboration, and data-driven improvement, SCALE aims to transform how Arizona approaches inclusive postsecondary education. By emphasizing self-determination and real-world experience, the program not only helps students succeed in college but also prepares them for competitive, integrated employment and independent living.
To learn more or get involved, visit the SCALE webpage.