College and Circle of Support

Who can participate?

	Maddie's college experience (video transcript)

Any person graduating from high school with a college bound diploma who meets both WKU and KAP Circle of Support requirements can complete an application. The interested student needs to first apply to and be admitted to Western Kentucky University. To enroll in the main campus, you must meet WKU’s entrance requirements for English, foreign language, math and have an ACT score of at least 22 (or SAT score of 930) or have a GPA of 3.0. If you do not meet WKU’s main campus requirements, you may still enroll at the Commonwealth School. Besides offering courses to fulfill those requirements, the Commonwealth School offers two-year associate degrees. After the individual has received notification of acceptance he or she needs to contact the Kelly Autism Program and request an intake packet. He or she will complete the intake packet and return it to KAP. After KAP reviews the intake packet we will contact you to schedule an interview. During this process we will review your packet and determine if you would be a good candidate for our program. 

 

What does KAP Circle of Support Provide?

The KAP Circle of Support provides three major areas of assistance: private room, study tables and mentoring.

We recognize the need for space and will provide a single room. Every attempt is made to assign you to a residence hall that has a quiet living environment. As part of KAP, your rate is for double occupancy but you will be assigned a single room.

KAP also provides mandatory study tables for all participants four days a week for three hours each time. KAP staff works on executive functioning skills (organization, prioritizing work, etc) as well as tutoring. Study table staff consists of undergraduate and graduate students from WKU who have been trained in using “Evidence Based Practices” for individuals diagnosed with ASD. The staff consists of students from a variety of majors including: Exceptional Education, Communication Disorders, Public Health, Psychology and General Education. The KAP director and managers are WKU members, who are actively involved with the participants during the tutoring sessions and social activities as well as meeting with the participants individually.

The third support the program provides is mentoring. Each participant is assigned a mentor (undergrad or graduate KAP staff) who meets with them on a weekly basis. The mentor will help the participant get acclimated and involved in various clubs and organizations on WKU’s campus. Mentors will also do periodical dorm checks.

 

How do I get my Classroom Adaptations?

The Student Disability Services program provides classroom adaptations such as extended time in a quiet environment, note takers, books on tape, scanned e-text, and other modifications. Please contact them at 745-5004 for more details.

 

Why should I live in a dorm?

Students may live in WKU resident housing if they attend the main campus, the Commonwealth School, or the Vocational Technical College.

Residential life provides the opportunity for social interaction, learning the responsibilities for later independent living, time management, and most importantly to obtain the total university experience. You become part of the WKU family!

 

What will I do on the weekends?

Like other college students, you will have the choice of either staying on campus or going home to visit your family. If you decide to stay on campus, mentors help you plan activities for Saturday to do individually or in a group. Western Kentucky University offers many academic, social and athletic events on the weekends, so campus is very busy.

 

What will I eat?

Students will sign up for various meal plans through WKU’s dining services, which are offered at a number of campus locations. You will select the meal plan that best meets your needs.

 

What do I need to bring?

Bring whatever you like. Typical items include: a mini refrigerator, microwave, computer, phone, television, carpet/rugs, and personal items to decorate your room. All rooms are equipped with cable, phone and internet access.

For more information, access the Housing and Residence Life website.

 

How much will it cost?

The cost to be a part of the Residential program is $2250.00 per semester, which is paid to the Kelly Autism Program. This does not include tuition or housing fees, which are paid to Western Kentucky University. Check with the KAP Director regarding support for this payment.

 

Is there any financial help for the KAP Residential Program?

There are three possibilities:

1. Traditional loans. It is best to contact the WKU Student Financial Aid office: 270- 745-2755, and ask them about loan programs.

2. The second is to contact the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). You will be assigned a rehabilitation counselor who will take an application and determine if you are eligible for services. If you meet the criteria for eligibility, OVR may be able to help with financial assistance for the KAP fee, tuition and textbooks. These services need to be applied for each semester. Some students are eligible to receive aid from Social Security. For more information please contact your Social Security Office.

3. As the program develops, a number of KAP scholarships are planned depending on financial need and overall GPA.