Fairmont, W.Va. – Pierpont Community & Technical College is hosting an open house for its Pierpont Rapid Intellectual Disabilities Education (PRIDE) Academy on Friday, February 2, from 4-8 p.m. at the Gaston Caperton Center located at 501 W Main St. Clarksburg. This open house is for registration for fall 2024.

The Pierpont PRIDE Academy provides postsecondary transition programming and comprehensive support services to individuals with intellectual disabilities. First-year students learn basic life skills, and second-year students earn vocational certificates.

“We strive to help students reach their goals,” said Michelle Graham, instructor at the PRIDE Academy. “We understand that every student’s needs are different. We will meet them where they are and help them along their journey of independence.”

During the open house, students will meet with the PRIDE Academy staff, get an overview of the program, and tour the campus. Applications for the program will be available, along with resources for tuition assistance.

“Attending an open house will help parents and potential students decide if our program is a good fit for their needs,” said Graham. “College can seem like a scary step, but we are here to make it a smooth transition for everyone!”

Requirements for potential students include must be self-mobile and able to independently care for their physical and medical needs during school hours, be at least 18 years old, and at any stage post high school.

For more information about the PRIDE Academy and student requirements, visit go.pierpont.edu/prideacademy. For more information about Pierpont Community & Technical College, visit pierpont.edu.