Project CASE: Connections for Academic Success and Employment
A Partnership of the Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research with South Plains College
In order to demonstrate how appropriate supports may help individuals with developmental disabilities complete post-secondary education and achieve employment goals, Project CASE will unite resources from each partner (Texas Tech University, South Plains College and the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services) to identify, recruit and retain students with developmental disabilities, ages 18-25.
John Garbutt — a Washington state native and freshman Biology and Chemistry major at South Plains College in Levelland, Texas — is a participant in Project CASE, preparing for a career in epidemiology.
Project Description
Project CASE is a program designed to provide support for students with developmental disabilities in their pursuit of academic achievement that will lead to a student’s personal employment and career goals. Students are expected to meet the same expectations and criteria of any other qualified student attending Texas Tech University or South Plains College. This means you as a student must complete all required coursework and meet the technical requirements of your selected program. Coursework, curriculum, and/or educational programs cannot be altered or modified in any way.
Project Director: DeAnn Lechtenberger
Geographic Reach: Statewide
Area of Emphasis: Employment
State Plan Goal 2
Establish at least two programs that assist Texans with developmental disabilities to gain competitive employment and/or to increase their personal income and assets, and that continue to operate after the completion of a maximum of 3-5 years of TCDD funding.
Project Accomplishments
As of November 2012, 7 participants were enrolled at Texas Tech University and 7 more were enrolled across 3 different South Plains College campuses.
Project CASE in the News
Oct. 3, 2011
- Daily Toreador
The Burkhart Center offers post-secondary opportunities to students with disabilities
Sept. 30, 2011
- Texas Tech Today
$1.1 Million Grant to Help Students with Developmental Disabilities
Sept. 20, 2011 - TCDD News
Texas Tech Promotes Higher Education for Students with Disabilities
November 1, 2011 - TCDD News
Texas Tech Receives Grant to Help Students Navigate Higher Education