The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry showcased the ongoing success and impact of its Summer Academies for high school students who are blind and visually impaired and students who are deaf and hard of hearing. These week-long programs – hosted annually by L&I’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and held at Penn State’s University Park campus – provide students the tools and training needed to live independently, pursue higher education, and secure meaningful employment.
L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker met with 18 students attending the Summer Academy for Students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Previously, she visited 18 students participating in the Summer Academy for Students who are Blind and Visually Impaired. Both programs are offered at no cost to students or families through federal Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) funding.
“These summer academies provide students with disabilities an immersive experience on a college campus where they can socialize with peers and develop the practical skills needed for a successful transition to college and the workforce,” said Secretary Walker. “Every student faces unique challenges, and we know students with disabilities often benefit from additional support.”
Students participating in OVR’s Summer Academies experience authentic college living, including dormitory accommodations, dining hall meals, and team-building activities. The curriculum covers mobility training, requesting accommodations, assistive technology use, emotional and social development, career planning, and adaptive sports. Personalized reports provided to students and families outline individual strengths and areas for further growth. Students attending the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Summer Academy have an opportunity to utilize captioning and interpreting services which provide them with full communication access.
The academies also offer career development opportunities to college students who have an interest in working in disability-related fields by employing them as Resident Assistants (RAs). New this year at the Blind and Visually Impaired Academy, several RAs were college students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Many former RAs have successfully transitioned into careers with OVR and L&I.
