MICC Summer Program is Going Virtual!
Introduction
The developments related to COVID-19 are unprecedented. At MICC, we are focused on the safety and well being of our participants, families, and staff. Our originally published June and July in-person sessions have been cancelled.
Although we are disappointed we are unable to deliver our in-person program, we are excited to offer a virtual option utilizing Google Classroom and Google Meet being held Monday through Friday from July 13 - July 26, 2020.
Our 2020 Virtual Summer Program helps young adults with Autism and other learning differences to develop valuable skills. Taking the best of what MICC provides, and incorporating a dynamic mix of expert staff from MICC’s comprehensive College program, this unique program will be anything but your typical remote learning offering!
The cost will be significantly reduced to $1,200 in total for both AM and PM sessions with the option to participate in a half-day.
Participants will connect and engage through a diverse mix of individual and small group modules. Engaging and educational sessions will be provided in the areas of:
Although we are disappointed we are unable to deliver our in-person program, we are excited to offer a virtual option utilizing Google Classroom and Google Meet being held Monday through Friday from July 13 - July 26, 2020.
Our 2020 Virtual Summer Program helps young adults with Autism and other learning differences to develop valuable skills. Taking the best of what MICC provides, and incorporating a dynamic mix of expert staff from MICC’s comprehensive College program, this unique program will be anything but your typical remote learning offering!
The cost will be significantly reduced to $1,200 in total for both AM and PM sessions with the option to participate in a half-day.
Participants will connect and engage through a diverse mix of individual and small group modules. Engaging and educational sessions will be provided in the areas of:
- Job Seeking Skills
- Career Exploration through virtual volunteering, guest speakers and interest inventories
- Social Skills Development and Fun Activities
- Practicing Independent Living skills
- Healthy Habits and Wellness Routines
Virtual Program Overview
Spend your summer with Minnesota Independence College and Community (MICC) and Learn Skills. Experience Life.
Our Virtual Summer Program is designed for young adults ages 17-20.
Careers Experience
Students will be introduced to our Careers curriculum, connecting career exploration and job seeking skills through a variety of activities and settings, utilizing a combination of teaching methods in the process. Classes will include an exploration of job seeking skills and an introduction to each of MICC’s four certificate program industries: Culinary, Hospitality, Health Services, and Retail. Students will create a resume, a sample cover letter, participate in a mock interview, and develop a vocational plan for future employment goals. Additional topics include self-advocacy skills, workplace health and wellness and interpersonal skills.
Social Programming
Social skills classes and electives programming foster positive peer connections around common interests and hobbies. Social skills lessons will focus on social awareness, communication, self-regulation, self-awareness, and decision making. These skills are discussed and put into practice in the hobby-based electives of their choosing.
Independent Living
Independent living skills curriculum will help students develop strategies for completing daily living tasks through a balance of independent and structured support. Holistic health classes will focus on topics such as healthy food choices, time management and organization. Additionally, staff will target an overall well-being with a balance of diet, fitness, personal hygiene and stress management.
MICC strongly believes in taking a person-centered approach to our programming to help our students discover their full potential and to build a vibrant community. At the end of our Summer Program, participants and families receive a comprehensive report celebrating victories and providing insight on opportunities for growth.
Our Virtual Summer Program is designed for young adults ages 17-20.
Careers Experience
Students will be introduced to our Careers curriculum, connecting career exploration and job seeking skills through a variety of activities and settings, utilizing a combination of teaching methods in the process. Classes will include an exploration of job seeking skills and an introduction to each of MICC’s four certificate program industries: Culinary, Hospitality, Health Services, and Retail. Students will create a resume, a sample cover letter, participate in a mock interview, and develop a vocational plan for future employment goals. Additional topics include self-advocacy skills, workplace health and wellness and interpersonal skills.
Social Programming
Social skills classes and electives programming foster positive peer connections around common interests and hobbies. Social skills lessons will focus on social awareness, communication, self-regulation, self-awareness, and decision making. These skills are discussed and put into practice in the hobby-based electives of their choosing.
Independent Living
Independent living skills curriculum will help students develop strategies for completing daily living tasks through a balance of independent and structured support. Holistic health classes will focus on topics such as healthy food choices, time management and organization. Additionally, staff will target an overall well-being with a balance of diet, fitness, personal hygiene and stress management.
MICC strongly believes in taking a person-centered approach to our programming to help our students discover their full potential and to build a vibrant community. At the end of our Summer Program, participants and families receive a comprehensive report celebrating victories and providing insight on opportunities for growth.
Dates, Cost, and ScheduleDates: VIRTUAL July 13-26, 2020 | Monday through Friday | 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (for full day) Cost: The cost will be reduced to $1,200 in total for both AM and PM sessions with the option to participate in a half-day. |
|
Admissions Criteria
Requirements include:
A successful candidate must…
- A diagnosed learning disability, executive dysfunction, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD/ADD, or other neurological condition. Most applicants will have a range of cognitive and processing abilities.
- No significant behavior or emotional dysregulation.
- Responds well to a structured and supported environment.
- Between the ages of 17-20 years old.
- A Full Scale IQ of 70 or above.
A successful candidate must…
- Be excited to be a part of MICC programming and have a general buy-in.
- Be able to make independent, safe decisions and not require 24-hour supervision. MICC is not a therapeutic or psychiatric program; and will not be a good fit for participants who experience significant emotional and behavioral challenges.
- Be developmentally ready to participate in a comprehensive apartment-living and community-based program. Applicant responds well to a structured and supported environment.
- Have evidence of their ability to navigate day-to-day activities (school, volunteering, work, etc.) without 1:1 support.
- Demonstrate emotional and behavioral stability sufficient to live independently, function socially, and participate fully in programming
Steps to Apply for Virtual Summer Program
Our Admissions Department will continue to accept applications and work with prospective students and their families (virtually) through this time. Space is limited and available on a first come, first serve basis.
Step 1: Complete an application.
Step 2: Send materials.
Email admissions@miccommunity.org with the following supplemental materials:
Completed application and supplemental documents will be reviewed for candidacy, and applicants will receive an email from Office of Admissions to self-schedule a 30-minute virtual consultation.
Step 4: Determination.
Candidates will be notified via email of the Admissions Committee's decision within one-week of the video consultation. Admitted students will receive instructions to join along with required registration forms.
Step 1: Complete an application.
- The 2020 Virtual Summer Program application is now open through July 1, 2020. Select "Enrollment Application - Summer" to apply after creating an account here: https://crm.bestnotes.com/portal/mnlife/
- Pay the $100 application fee. Make an online payment or mail a check payable to MICC for the $100 application fee (please note applicant's name in the memo).
Step 2: Send materials.
Email admissions@miccommunity.org with the following supplemental materials:
- Required: Copies of current/latest Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Evaluation Report, and/or Transition Plan.
- Optional: A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation completed in any of the following areas: 1) Cognitive Ability, 2) Academic Ability, 3) Adaptive Behaviors Skills, 4) Social/Emotional/Behavior Skills, and 5) Executive Functioning Skills. Refer to the Guidelines for Disability Documentation for more information.
Completed application and supplemental documents will be reviewed for candidacy, and applicants will receive an email from Office of Admissions to self-schedule a 30-minute virtual consultation.
Step 4: Determination.
Candidates will be notified via email of the Admissions Committee's decision within one-week of the video consultation. Admitted students will receive instructions to join along with required registration forms.
Virtual Summer Program FAQ's
What type of supervision is provided?
Each student will be part of a small group led by an MICC Instructor. Students are expected to adhere to the attendance requirements and rules regarding their safety, anti-bullying, and anti-harassment.
What is asked of parents or family members?
We ask that families support their students in participating. This means meeting attendance requirements, participating in the onboarding, opening, and closing ceremonies. MICC staff will communicate regularly throughout the program and are available for any questions that might arise.
What can families and students expect to receive at the end of the program?
Students will receive an evaluation completed by MICC staff which addresses the progress they made in the areas of social, vocational, and independent living skills. This evaluation may also include suggestions of strategies and recommendations that students can utilize at home/school/work to further their skills. Students will also receive a certificate of completion and a copy of their vocational plan, healthy lifestyle plan, and an employment portfolio that includes a resume, a sample cover letter, references, and interview prep resources.
What does a day in the life of Virtual Summer Program look like?
A mix of individual, small group, and educational sessions take place Monday through Friday. All sessions are hosted live via online video conferencing and students will access content using Google Classroom. Students will also have some scheduled breaks and opportunities to socialize with peers.
What equipment will I need to participate?
Students will need access to the following technology tools to complete curriculum modules, interact with staff and peers, and participate in fun virtual group activities;
Each student will be part of a small group led by an MICC Instructor. Students are expected to adhere to the attendance requirements and rules regarding their safety, anti-bullying, and anti-harassment.
What is asked of parents or family members?
We ask that families support their students in participating. This means meeting attendance requirements, participating in the onboarding, opening, and closing ceremonies. MICC staff will communicate regularly throughout the program and are available for any questions that might arise.
What can families and students expect to receive at the end of the program?
Students will receive an evaluation completed by MICC staff which addresses the progress they made in the areas of social, vocational, and independent living skills. This evaluation may also include suggestions of strategies and recommendations that students can utilize at home/school/work to further their skills. Students will also receive a certificate of completion and a copy of their vocational plan, healthy lifestyle plan, and an employment portfolio that includes a resume, a sample cover letter, references, and interview prep resources.
What does a day in the life of Virtual Summer Program look like?
A mix of individual, small group, and educational sessions take place Monday through Friday. All sessions are hosted live via online video conferencing and students will access content using Google Classroom. Students will also have some scheduled breaks and opportunities to socialize with peers.
What equipment will I need to participate?
Students will need access to the following technology tools to complete curriculum modules, interact with staff and peers, and participate in fun virtual group activities;
- A reliable high-speed internet connection
- Desktop or laptop device with a functional microphone and webcam. We recommend a headset for the best experience. (mobile or tablet devices are not recommended for participation in our remote learning environment)
- Basic technological knowledge such as video conferencing, using Google Slides and/or PowerPoint, accessing and using email, and troubleshooting simple issues that often can come up
