PALS

PALS gives students with I/DD the opportunity to go to college, to learn new skills, explore careers, prepare for employment and ultimately gain more independence.

What is PALS?

The Arc Gateway Program for Adult Learning and Support (PALS) is a career certification program located on the main campus of Pensacola State College. The program provides learning on a college campus that focuses on career certification, increased independence, and preparation to enter the workforce.

PALS is designed for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who want to learn new skills and get a job. Most applicants would have received special education services in the K-12 setting through an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan and exited their secondary school with a diploma, GED or certificate of completion.

How to Apply

The application process is broken down into three steps:

Step 1: Complete the online application. This provides us with student information, interests, and abilities.

Step 2: A personal interview. This allows the applicant to become more familiar with the program and campus while giving the admissions committee the opportunity to get to know the potential student.

Step 3: Notification of Acceptance. This is the official letter mailed to the student letting them know if they are accepted into the program. Along with the letter is important information about required documentation, if applicable, and start dates.

Is PALS for me?

To ensure that PALS is the best option for each applicant, we require a completed application packet. Individuals wishing to apply to the program should possess a majority of the items listed below. Additional requirements for specific training programs may also be required.aerapy

Desire to obtain community-based employment upon completion of career certification
Ability to perform hygiene routine independently or has services to provide this support
Ability to manage medications or has services to provide this support
Ability to be unsupervised for an extended period of time on a college campus or in the community
Applicant does not exhibit disruptive behavior
Ability to communicate with others
Functional math skills
Functional reading skills by any mode
Functional writing skills or a mode to produce written material
Applicant has had prior vocational experiences that guided him or her to the chosen career path
Applicant must have a desire to get and keep a job following their career certification training
Applicant is 18 years or older (or will be 18 at the start of the training session)
Applicant has exited high school. Applicant can apply while in high school and remain in high school until the start of the training session.
Applicant has had satisfactory attendance at school and/or in other training programs
Applicant must be determined eligible based on criteria established under funding opportunity
Applicant can provide documentation for a diagnosis of a disability

Career Certification Paths

Administrative Services
Auto Detailing
Carpentry Helper
Cleaning & Maintenance
Food Service
Horticulture Studies
Lawn Care & Maintenance
Retail Services

While most students will earn their certification in one year, the program does offer one semester certification tracks. Based on each student’s abilities, PALS staff are able to work the individual, PSC, and other agencies to develop and coordinate a plan for additional college courses that lead to other vocational certification and academic degrees.

Be a Business Partner!

Interested in becoming a PALS business partner or hosting an intern?

Hiring a person with disabilities can:

Create better relationships and expand customer base
Increase retention which reduces hiring and training costs
Make a positive impact on a person and their families
Provide possible tax incentives and deductions
Ensure diversity in the workplace

"Individuals with disabilities are dedicated and devoted; we can rely on them to come to work. It's more than an appropriate business practice; it's the noble thing to do for my business and customers."

Samantha Beach

Wal-mart