3T Academy Residential Program

Coming to the end of high school is an exciting time to celebrate achievements and prepare for the next steps in life. For those exploring the possibility of attending college after high school, many students have benefited from participating in college readiness workshops and programs. 

In this program, college-bound students will experience independent living on a university campus while attending workshops that prepare them for what it takes to be successful in their post-high school programs of choice. 

The best part about this program is that students can immerse themselves in all that campus life has to offer and create amazing experiences and memories with the new friends made during 3T Academy. DSB staff and youth mentors will be there to provide support, guidance, or help with new or tricky situations. 

During the program, participants will have access to:

• Room & board on the EWU campus
• A meal plan that provides all meals, snacks, and beverages for the duration of the program
• Laundry facilities and a pre-loaded laundry card
• Campus-wide recreational facilities
• Campus technology labs and other internet needs
• A bus pass for getting around town and for trips into Spokane.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

Week 1 

Residential Skills

Week 1 consists of getting comfortable in the dorm and on campus with peers. This is the time to learn how to live in a residential dorm setting with others and access all campus services – including the Pence Union Market which is a great place to get food and drink with friends. 

College Readiness Skills

The first week of 3T Academy also consists of learning activities designed to build confidence in college and career readiness. Participants will spend some time at Spokane Falls Community College to learn the differences between community college versus a four-year university. 

Topics include college resources, navigating technology for college success, differences between high school and college, practical skills (such as organization and time management), advocacy, executive functioning, and stress management.  

Week 2

The Classroom Experience

After several days immersed in on-campus living and confidence building through acquiring college readiness skills, it’s time to practice being a college student!  

In week two, students will have a mock college experience complete with course syllabi, instructor led lectures, classroom discussions, and college-level assignments, including a group project to be completed with peers.  Students will practice accessing resources, learn ways to get involved in campus life outside of the classroom, and hone advocacy skills with in-person interactions with support services.  

3T Academy Graduation

This event celebrates the completion of the 3T Academy program and highlights the progress and achievements made during the program. Parents and families will be there to celebrate with the grads! 

 

Cost

The 3T Academy is free and open to students who are currently participating in VR Services with DSB. VR Services cover travel, lodging, food, and participation in this program.

Who

This workshop is ideal for students with disabilities ages 16-21 who are blind, low-vision, or deaf blind. Participants must be in an active VR plan through the Department of Services for the Blind. 

Other requirements:

• A strong commitment to learning about transitioning to a college, university, or other post-high school program.
• A high level of independent living and self-management skills.
• Strong Orientation & Mobility skills
• Tech literacy including keyboarding, e-mail and internet use, and word processing and presentation tool experience.
   

When

Two weeks during the summer.

Where

Eastern Washington University, Cheney, Washington

The program will also feature day trips to:  

• Spokane Falls Community College 
• Downtown Spokane
• Local retailers and restaurants