SIC Falcon PRIDE Program Opens Career Pathways for Students With Disabilities

Southeastern Illinois College’s Falcon PRIDE program is already changing lives, just one year after quietly launching with financial support from the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB).

Falcon PRIDE — which stands for Professional Resource Integration Development Education — began in late spring 2024 with the goal of helping young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities transition from school to independence. In just the first year, students have gained employment, developed life skills, and found a new sense of confidence.

The program serves individuals with Down syndrome and other learning disabilities, primarily ages 18 to 24, who live within the SIC district. It combines classroom-based learning with real-world job experience, helping students build the foundation needed for daily living and long-term employment.

“Our program is entirely student-centered,” said Lisa Johnson, Falcon PRIDE coordinator. “We meet students where they are — whether that is learning to cook and do laundry or preparing for a job in the community that fits their interests.”

Participants begin with an intake assessment to identify goals and needs. Life skills such as hygiene, laundry, cooking, and communication are taught in the classroom. Students are then placed in a work setting one day per week, based on their interests. SIC students serve as job coaches and mentors to help support the transition into the workforce.

Two of the program’s first students are already working multiple days each week in positions they love.

Layton Sauls was the inspiration for Falcon PRIDE. His father, Ricky Sauls, spent years working to bring the program to life to support Layton’s future — and others like him. That vision is now a reality.

Layton began working at Bright Beginnings Learning Daycare Center on SIC’s campus and later expanded to Wabash Senior Living and Rehabilitation in Carmi. He now works three days a week for seven hours a day and said his favorite part of Falcon PRIDE is “getting a job at the daycare and Wabash.” When asked if he would recommend the program, Layton replied, “Yes, I do.”

Another early success story is Alex, who initially expressed hesitation about entering the classroom and little interest in finding a job. “I already work at home doing laundry,” he told staff. But after starting on campus at Falcon Pointe Bistro, Alex’s motivation and skills quickly grew.

He began his new job at Dorrisville Baptist Church in Harrisburg on June 9. Staff members have gone above and beyond to welcome him, assigning him personalized duties and purchasing a custom custodial cart for his use.

“I like this class because I made new friends,” Alex said.

The program was made possible through an ICCB grant. The college is currently seeking additional funding to continue and expand services in the future.

Falcon PRIDE aims to enroll 10 students annually and is built around each individual’s needs and interests. Job placements are coordinated by Johnson, who works with local employers willing to provide supportive work environments. The program initially covers student wages during training, with the goal of long-term, employer-paid positions beyond the support phase.

Southeastern is currently seeking volunteer job coaches, local employers interested in partnering with the program and part-time instructors to assist two to three days per week. Special education certification is not required to teach, but a patient and understanding approach is essential. The college also plans to collaborate with partners like Coleman Tri-County Services and Egyptian Health to offer transitional support after program completion.

“This program is a win for everyone involved,” said SIC President Dr. Karen Weiss. “It empowers our students, supports our local workforce and shows what is possible when our community works together.”

To learn more about Falcon PRIDE, refer a student, or get involved as an instructor, coach or employer, contact Lisa Johnson at lisa.johnson@sic.edu or 618-252-5400, ext. 2412.

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