Disability Support Services

Disability Support Services (DSS) offers a variety of services and accommodations for students who are enrolled in NOCE classes, and who have verified disabilities including: learning, intellectual, Autism-spectrum, hearing, visual, mobility, psychological, acquired brain injury, and other medical conditions. Accommodations and services are tailored to the student’s individual needs in compliance with state and federal legislation. Students who have a verifiable disability qualify for support services. The services are designed to support students in reaching their academic or vocational goals. Reasonable accommodations are determined on an individual basis through consultation with a DSS counselor. Services and accommodations are based on the educational abilities and functional limitations unique to each student.

Location:

  • Anaheim Campus
    1830 Romneya Drive, Anaheim, California 92801
  • Cypress Center
    9200 Valley View Street, Cypress, California 90630
  • Wilshire Center
    315 E Wilshire Avenue, Fullerton, California 92832

Contact Information:

DSS offers a large variety of classes and programs for students with disabilities that provide students with a college experience, focused on skills needed to live, work and navigate the community independently. Other programs include:

  • DSS classes that promote academic and career readiness, independence, mobility, problem-solving skills, employment, and living independently in the community. 
  • Workforce and Inclusion Programs such as College to Career (C2C), Independent Vocational and Educational Support (IVES), Workability III (WAIII), California Subminimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment Project (CSP), educational coaching, job development, and bus mobility training, providing support for inclusive classes, employment readiness, and job placement. 
  • Counseling and Student Services to support students with the transition from K-12 to college, educational and vocational goal setting, academic accommodation plans, materials in alternate formats, testing accommodations, and referrals to other campus and community resources. 
  • Support for Mental Health and Wellness such as counseling, small group instruction, peer mentoring, and referral to mental health providers through the Academics, Relationships, Independence, Self-Advocacy, Emotional Health (ARISE) instructional support and wellness hub. 

Students and their families who are interested in DSS programs and services should apply to NOCE online at noce.edu/dss, and then call (714) 808-4719 to schedule an appointment with a DSS counselor. General hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

How to get started with NOCE DSS

Step 1: 

Obtain a Student ID Number

  • Apply in-person at any NOCE location. Call StarHelp at (714) 808-4679 for open hours.
  • OR Apply online at https://noce.edu/apply
    1. Complete the interest survey form. You can skip this step by using the QR code.
    2. Create/Sign-Into your OpenCCC account.
      *If creating a new account, you will need to use an email that has not been used for other CCC accounts.
    3. Complete the application to North Orange Continuing Education.
    4. You will receive a Student ID number by e-mail within 48 hours of submitting the application.

STEP 2:

Call or email the NOCE DSS Office to schedule an initial intake appointment

  • Two separate one-hour appointments (or one 90-minute meeting) are needed to complete the entire intake process. If required, your DSS counselor will schedule a second appointment after you meet.
  • Please have the following items readily available for the appointment:
    1. Disability verification or indicate you are interested in a learning disability assessment.
    2. Two emergency contacts
    3. Service Coordinator contact IF you are a Regional Center consumer
    4. A list of current medication you are taking
    5. A student ID, CA ID, or passport

DSS Supports and Services

DSS Programs and Services can be categorized into three distinctive areas: Workforce, Inclusive Services, and Educational Assistance Classes. Although their purposes are different, there is some overlap. For more information on the DSS programs, call (714) 808-4719, email: disabilitysupport@noce.edu, or visit noce.edu/dss.

Program Areas

  • Counseling & Accommodations
  • Educational courses
  • Inclusive Services
  • Workforce

Who is Eligible?

  • Regional Center referral
  • At least age 18
  • Able to abide by Standards of Student Conduct
  • Independent with self-care (or attendant)

Instructional Programs

NOCE Disability Support Services (DSS) Instructional Programs offer specialized courses designed to support the academic, vocational, and independent living skills of students with disabilities. Classes focus on building practical skills in areas such as basic academics, technology, workplace preparation, and personal development. Through supportive instruction and individualized learning, students gain the confidence and abilities needed to reach their educational, career, and life goals.

Educational Assistance Classes 

Special Focus On

  • Academic and Vocational Success
  • Basic Computer Skills
  • Literacy
  • Living Independently
  • Mobility
  • Personal Finance
  • Personal Health and Wellness
  • Relationship Safety
  • Self-Advocacy
  • Social and Communications Skills

Class Duration

  • Each class begins in the fall term and concludes at the end of the spring term
  • Students are able to begin mid-year, if space permits
  • A separate six-week summer session is offered

Methods of Instructions

  • Lecture/class discussion
  • Distance education
  • Role-playing and hands-on demonstration
  • Individualized instruction
  • Small group instruction
  • Field trips into the community
  • Cooperative learning groups
  • Guest speakers
  • Computer assisted instruction

Successful Can

  • Facilitate effective communication in some form
  • Demonstrate measured progress toward vocational, educational and/or personal goals
  • Adhere to the mutually agreed upon schedule of classes
  • Independently use the restroom and tend to personal care needs or has made arrangements for a personal care attendant
  • Maintain 90% attendance, including arriving to class on time
  • Adhere to Standards of Student Conduct

WISE (Work Independence Self-Advocacy Education)

The Work Independence Self-Advocacy Education (WISE) program prepares adults with moderate intellectual disabilities to live and work as independently as possible. The program offers classroom and community-based instruction with a 1:4 staff-to-student ratio. Because of the small group, WISE students receive personalized attention while earning their certificates for completing specific requirements.

Certificate Tracks

  • Consumer Skills Certificate -  Students learn how to manage their money, create and stick to a budget, and develop other life skills to build independence.
  • Employability Certificate - Training focuses on finding on-campus volunteer jobs and interacting with others in the workplace. Students will get the tools and resources to succeed in the working world.
  • Health and Safety Certificate - Students learn about personal safety and how to use nutrition and exercise to maintain good health.
  • Practical Living Certificate - Lessons focus on developing skills to help students do household tasks independently, such as cooking safely at home. This segment also teaches students how to access community resources.
  • US Civics Certificate - Students learn all about the United States, including geography, civics, and national history. 

Locations: 

  • Cypress Center, 9200 Valley View Street (Bldg 18), Cypress, California 90630
  • Wilshire Center, 315 E. Wilshire Avenue, Fullerton, California 92832

Who is Eligible?

  • Regional Center referral
  • At least age 18
  • Able to abide by Standards of Student Conduct
  • Independent with self-care (or attendant)
  • No uncontrolled medical condition
  • Unsupervised for short periods

Counseling and Student Services

NOCE DSS Counseling and Student Services provides individualized academic, career, and personal support to students with disabilities. Our counselors work closely with each student to create personalized education and accommodation plans that promote success and independence. Through a variety of services and resources, we empower students to achieve their educational, professional, and personal goals.

Common Accommodations and Services

  • Classroom and Exam Accommodations
    • Testing
    • Note-taking
    • Learning strategies
    • Tutoring  and/or Learning Center
    • Registration assistance
  • DSS Counseling
    • Academic
    • Vocational
    • Advocacy and referral support
  • Communication and Technology
    • Sign language interpretation
    • Assistive Technology  
    • Materials in alternate formats
    • Adaptive furniture 
    • Technology Support

Alternative Media and Assistive

The DSS Program counselors can help students with referrals for assistive technology. After you receive your letter of accommodation from your counselor, the Assistive Technology lab can assist you with:

  • Conversion of books and material into alternate formats
  • Training on assistive software and technologies limited
  • Issuing assistive technology Students may access the Assistive Technology Lab at the Anaheim Campus by scheduling an appointment by email at atlab@noce.edu.

Learning Disability Assessment

What is a learning disability?

  • A learning disability is a permanent condition that interferes with an individual’s ability to store, process, or produce information
  • It can affect academic skills, such as reading, writing, and computing math
  • It may affect an individual’s attention and memory 

How does Disability Support Services assist students who may have a learning disability?

  • Students who struggle academically and believe they may have a learning disability can receive a learning disability (LD) screening and assessment
  • Intake screening and testing results may be used to determine eligibility for DSS services and supports.

Educational Coaching

Eligibility requirements: Service available exclusively to current DSS students at Cypress College, Fullerton College, or North Orange Continuing Education (NOCE).  Educational Coaching is not tutoring. To enroll please contact the NOCE DSS office at (714) 808-4719  or  disabilitysupport@noce.edu to schedule an intake meeting with a DSS counselor.

Services Offered

  • Study Skills Support
  • Preparation Assistance
  • Online Class Navigation Guidance
  • Convenient Online Support from the comfort of your home
  • Weekly Group Labs for educational coaching support
  • Personalized 1-on-1 weekly meetings with Educational Coaches for students seeking additional support

Educational Coaching Helps Students with: 

  • Learning time management, study skills, and organizational skills
  • Social mentoring, accommodation advocacy, and building the necessary skills to live and work independently
  • Utilizing tools to improve independent learning
  • Navigating Canvas, Zoom, college websites, and myGateway
  • Accessing campus resources
  • Checking progress in class and locating class materials
  • Supporting with basic writing, grammar, punctuation, and proofreading
  • Understanding assignment instructions
  • Scheduling appointments with teachers during office hours for additional support
  • Revising emails, assignments, and discussions for their classes

Mobility Training

Learn how to take the city bus (OCTA) to and from home, school, and work. For more information, email mobility@noce.edu or contact the NOCE DSS office at (714) 808-4719.

Students will Learn:

  • To take the city bus independently to and from home, school, or work
  • To read a bus book 
  • To use the bus planning apps
  • To interact appropriately and safely in the community
  • To ride a personalized bus route

ARISE (Academics, Relationships, Independence, Self-Advocacy, and Emotional Health)

The ARISE (Academics, Relationships, Independence, Self-Advocacy, and Emotional, Health) Lab is a neurodiversity and wellness resource designed to help students achieve their goals. ARISE embraces a holistic approach to student success by focusing on Academics, Relationships, Independence, Self-Advocacy, and Emotional Health for all students.  ARISE is an inviting place that students can choose to utilize when they are struggling with emotional regulation, overstimulation, or need other support to be successful in achieving their academic goals. Below are some general guidelines for when a student may benefit from visiting ARISE:

A – Academics: ARISE is here to support students who may be struggling with executive functioning in class. We can provide one-on-one or group support to help students utilize strategies like notetaking, study skills, or general college success skills.
R – Relationships: ARISE offers support to students to help them build social connections for healthy, meaningful relationships on campus.
I – Independence: ARISE helps students develop skills to encourage independence in their professional, personal, and academic pursuits.
S – Self-Advocacy: ARISE equips students with advocacy skills to build confidence, self-awareness, and boundaries.
E – Emotional Health: ARISE is a safe space that students can use when they are feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, or in need of a space to help self-regulate.

Locations:

  • Anaheim Campus, Fourth Floor, Room 404
  • Cypress Center, Business Bldg., Room 119
  • Wilshire Center, Bldg. 100, Room 118

IVES  (Independent Vocational Education Support)

The Independent Vocational Educational Supports (IVES) program provides coaching to support students as they complete post-secondary educational programs and seek employment.

Who is Eligible?

  • Regional Center referral
  • At least age 18
  • Able to abide by Standards of Student Conduct
  • Independent with self-care (or attendant)

Workforce

NOCE Disability Support Services (DSS) Workforce Services provides tailored career counseling, job readiness training, and employment support for students with disabilities. Services focus on developing essential workplace skills, connecting students with employment opportunities, and ensuring access to resources that promote independence and success. Through individualized guidance and collaboration with community partners, DSS Workforce Services helps students achieve their career goals and thrive in today’s workforce.

College to Career

The purpose of College to Career (C2C) is to improve employment outcomes for individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Through inclusion in postsecondary education, persons with ID and/or ASD can expand the range of jobs available to them.

The North Orange County Community College District (NOCCCD) is one of just eight institutions in the state to receive funding for C2C.  NOCCCD partners with the Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC), DOR, and local employers to develop jobs for students. Together, we prepare students with ID or ASD for competitive, integrated employment. 

C2C is a program that provides educational services designed to promote inclusion of students with intellectual disabilities into the college community while pursing individualized employment goals.

Who is Eligible?
  • Department of Rehabilitation eligible
  • At least age 18
  • Verified Intellectual Disability and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Enrollment in inclusive courses at NOCCCD
  • Desire to obtain Competitive Integrate Employment (CIE)

California Subminimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment Project (CSP)

  • CSP is a collaborative project between the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) and the North Orange County Community College District (NOCCCD). CSP guides adults with disabilities in obtaining competitive, long-term employment to help them achieve independence.
  • The CSP Program is an innovative and accommodating program offering educational and employment services to increase employment and independent living skills. Services are individualized to meet students where they are at in attaining their employment goals. Through this project, students can work on educational, social, and vocational skills to improve employability and independence. For more information visit  noce.edu/programs/disability/employment-support/
Educational Services

CSP participants will have exclusive access to an employment-focused curriculum. Courses offered include Social Skills, Job Skills, Intermediate Computers, Self-advocacy, and Living More Independently. CSP courses aim to increase employment and independent living skills for program participants.

Participants have access to all NOCCCD programs and services, and can receive 1:1 educational coaching support for enrollment in

  • Career Technical Education (CTE)
  • DSS inclusive courses (Certificates)
  • NOCE Noncredit courses
  • NOCCCD Credit Courses
  • High school diploma program
Employment Services

Participants of CSP will work 1:1 with an assigned job developer to prepare for and obtain employment. Program participants can receive job development services while taking classes. CSP offers two avenues of employment services; traditional job development and customized employment services.

Traditional Job Development

Traditional job development is broken into three phases; employment preparation, job development and placement, and retention services. Program participants will work 1:1 with their developer to create an employment portfolio, practice interviewing, applying for and following up on job leads. Once employed, job developers provide on-going support to both the employer and the employee to ensure a successful transition into the workforce.

Customized Employment Services

Customized employment services cater to program participants who have not found success through traditional job development methods. Customized employment prioritizes participants’ skills and preferences as the foundation for securing employment opportunities. It involves collaborating closely with employers to ensure their needs are aligned with the participants’ abilities and aspirations.

Peer Mentor Program

Incoming participants of CSP will have the opportunity to enroll as a mentee in the peer mentorship program and receive mentorship from a fellow CSP student.

Peer Mentors will help guide incoming students as they get used to being on a college campus. Activities will include:

  • Campus tours and access to campus resources
  • 1:1 weekly meetings with their peer mentor
  • Modules and activities focused on education and employment
  • Social groups with peers
Who is Eligible?

To join the CSP Program at NOCE, students must:   

  • Be age 18 or older  
  • Have a verifiable disability 
  • Have an employment goal   
  • Possess the necessary documentation to work   
  • Be a client of the Department of Rehabilitation
    • DOR counselor must refer student to CSP DOR Counselor
    • Contact: csp@noce.edu

Workability III

The NOCE DSS Workability III Program (WAIII) provides 1:1 support to students with disabilities who are looking for work. The program assists students to overcome barriers to employment and helps them find, apply for, attain, and keep meaningful jobs. Students can be referred to the program by counselors, instructors, or staff members at NOCE, Cypress College, or Fullerton College. 

Job and employment specialists meet with students to determine individual skills, job aptitude, and work readiness. WAIII is a collaboration between NOCE and the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR). Workability III is a program dedicated to assisting work-ready students with preparing for, developing, and retaining competitive, integrated employment (CIE).

Who is Eligible?
  • At least age 18
  • Verified disability
  • Eligible for employment (including necessary documentation)

Differences Between High School and College 

In high school, the school district manages evaluations, IEPs, and built-in services with parents actively involved in decision-making. At the college level, students take full responsibility by providing documentation, requesting accommodations, and advocating for themselves without parental involvement. While most colleges are only required to provide accommodations, NOCE goes beyond by offering special classes tailored to build job skills and independent living. This unique commitment ensures students are not only supported academically but also prepared for real-world success.

High School Level Support Services

  • School district is responsible for evaluating the disability.
  • An IEP meeting is held to determine placement and appropriate services.
  • Specific goals and objectives are determined foreach student receiving services.
  • Parents are notified and must give permission for any decisions regarding their child.
  • Teachers, administrators, and parents advocate for students.
  • Re-evaluation of students is conducted by the school on a regular basis (generally every three-years).
  • Once a disability is documented, services are made available and included in the student's daily schedule.
  • Special classes or placements must be available

Post-Secondary/College Level Support Services

  • Students are responsible to provide current documentation of their disability.
  • Students work with college professionals to determine appropriate services and accommodations through the interactive process.
  • Students set their own academic goals with counsel from academic advisors.
  • Parents are not notified of their adult child’s services.
  • The college student is in control of their information (consent is required to release info to others).
  • Students advocate for themselves.
  • Re-evaluation of a disability is not generally required (if student remains continuously enrolled).
  • Students must request accommodations each time they are needed.
  • Colleges are not required to provide special classes/programs for students with disabilities.
  • NOCE provides many special classes to prepare students for jobs and living more independently.