El Paso Community College (EPCC) has marked a significant milestone with the 10th anniversary of its esteemed Project HIGHER. The program, operated by the EPCC Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD), is designed to assist students with intellectual and developmental disabilities in obtaining a level-one certificate and pursuing employment within their studied fields. Celebrating a decade of achievements, EPCC held an event emphasizing the continued success of Project HIGHER, which has seen 63 graduates out of 97 participants, according to EPCC News.
In a collaborative effort to develop postsecondary educational opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Project HIGHER was conceived by committed community members, as reported by EPCC News. Rick Razo, the program's founder, proudly recounted the journey that began a dozen years ago, focusing on empowering students to advance their education after high school. Navigating the college campus and environment, these students not only learned academic skills but also fostered relationships and mutual encouragement.
Project HIGHER's success is bolstered by the collaboration of various community partners, including the Master of Rehabilitation Counseling Program at the University of Texas at El Paso, Texas Workforce Solutions, Vocational Rehabilitation Services, and Volar Center for Independent Living. With the collective effort, the program has established a solid educational model based on supported employment, ensuring participants thrive in both academic and workplace settings. Alejandra Mendoza, the Project HIGHER Manager with EPCC since 2020, told EPCC News, “We take pride in celebrating each student's progress toward greater independence and self-advocacy." Her pride is evident despite the obstacles of transitioning from high school to college, which she acknowledges as challenging, yet manageable with the right support network.
Project HIGHER has been a beacon for the students, providing more than just academic guidance. "I've witnessed students discover their voices, gain independence, and celebrate milestones they once thought impossible," Brenda Gaytan, an EPCC education coach, said, as described by EPCC News.
