Garden State Pathways
Garden State Pathways (GSP) is a two-year, inclusive, post-secondary transitional program at Camden County College designed for students ages 18-24 with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities who are eligible for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funding.
The GSP program is designed to prepare students for independence and employability through classes in socialization, functional learning, financial literacy, work skills, life skills and more.
After completing all required courses and work experiences in the program, students will receive a Certificate of Postsecondary Studies from Camden County College that will confirm their job readiness, and a career-ready portfolio to take with them as they enter the workforce.
Benefits
COST
GSP at Camden County College is less than half the cost of our competitors, while providing the same high-quality education and support to our students.
STUDENT CENTERED
Inclusive programming, curriculum, and a supportive learning environment.
SOCIAL SKILLS
Students will receive an authentic college experience at GSP through non- restrictive, integrated classrooms while working and learning with peers their own age. Students are encouraged to attend all CCC social events and activities.
ACADEMICS
GSP students are provided a well-rounded, specialized curriculum that is appropriate for a range of students with intellectual and or developmental disabilities. Students will leave the GSP program prepared to access CCC student resources and advising assistance should they decide to continue their education.
ELECTIVES
Students will have the opportunity to explore their interests in a wide range of classes, including art, music, and physical fitness.
CAREER EXPLORATION
Job shadowing through community and business partnerships help your student receive hands-on experience that helps them build their portfolio for after they leave the GSP program. Students are required to complete 120 hours of vocational exploration each year.
Support
Our Job Coach plays a crucial role in supporting our students by assisting them in workplace skill development, problem solving, confidence building and helping students determine what career path is best for them.
By pairing currently enrolled students with experienced GSP alumni, students are provided with valuable guidance,
encouragement, and resources from their peers. Peer mentors serve as advocates and classroom support to current students, and foster a sense of community within the program.
Curriculum
CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION
Students will take specialized classes including Consumer Mathematics, Computer Fundamentals, Life Skills, Employment Basics, and more.
SOCIAL INTERACTION
Students will have the opportunity to enjoy an authentic college experience at Garden State Pathways while working and learning with peers their own age. Students are encouraged to attend all campus social events and activities and are typically escorted to events as a group.
PHYSICAL EXERCISE
Physical Education courses are built into the curriculum, and may include yoga and weight training.
ELECTIVES
Students can take a number of electives that reflect their own personal interests, including music, art, and more.
VIEW THE COMPLETE CURRICULUM
Testimonial
“I really enjoyed the GSP program and learning all about different kinds of jobs and employment! I also liked learning about life skills and proper ways to interact and communicate with others. I enjoyed each class I took- I especially enjoyed Yoga, which helped me feel good throughout each school day.”
KELLY
GSP Alumni and Peer Mentor
Apply to GSP
- GSP students should complete the online College application with the major code SPVO at 7cn1.us1788.com/apply.
- Once the College application is received, an application for the Garden State Pathways program will be sent to the applicant.
- Students wishing to enroll must be independent in daily living skills, motivated to complete an internship as well as class work.
- Students must have met all high school requirements, but do not necessarily need to have accepted their diploma.
- Must have a significant cognitive and/or developmental disability that interferes with their academic performance according to the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD).
- The applicant must have been (or is presently) eligible for special education and related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Additional Information
If you need further information or have additional questions please feel free to reach out to us using the contact information below or complete our Garden State Pathways Information Request Form.
You may also download and print the most recent Garden State Pathways Brochure.
Contact
Taryn Burkholder, MS, CRC
Director, The Accessibility Center
Taft Hall, Room 103
disabilityservices@us1788.com
(856) 227-7200, extension 4430