Lone Star College-Montgomery successfully launched its Neurodiversity Certification Program on January 31, 2024. This program is designed to enhance awareness and support students, through the understanding of neurodiversity, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurodevelopmental differences in educational settings.
The certification program, a collaboration between the LSC Office of Culture and Engagement, the LSC-M Neurodiversity Team, and the lifePath® program, provides practical strategies for faculty and staff to create inclusive learning environments that embrace individual differences. Dr. Yolanda Lopez, LSC-M Office of Culture and Engagement Manager, spearheaded efforts to bring awareness to the campus since first organizing events for Neurodiversity Awareness Month. An initial 18-hour training led to the development of a 3-hour certification program to meet campus needs. The curriculum, created by a team of faculty and staff from LSC-Montgomery and LSC-Tomball, provides a comprehensive foundation of knowledge of practical approaches to supporting individuals of all ages with diverse learning styles.
The launch of the certification program demonstrates the college's dedication to supporting all students and equipping faculty and staff with the tools to help them succeed academically. The program’s trainings will continue through 2024, providing participants with the knowledge and skills to support individuals with unique needs in the workplace. Attendees will have the opportunity to receive a copy of ‘The Neurodiverse Workplace’ book by Victoria Honeybourne to expand their knowledge and understanding of the needs of neurodivergent individuals.
By offering this certification program, LSC-Montgomery is making a proactive effort to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students to thrive. With the growing recognition of neurodiversity in education, faculty and staff who complete this program will be better equipped to adapt crucial processes and systems to help them reach their full potential. Additionally, participants will also receive an ally decal. This decal serves as a positive signal to colleagues and students, showcasing their support for neurodiversity.
Overall, the successful launch of the certification program at LSC-Montgomery aligns with the college's goal of offering high-quality education to all students and helps create a welcoming environment for all individuals. This initiative further showcases the college's commitment to catering to the varied needs of its student body and fostering a supportive atmosphere, highlighting the continuous focus on diversity and inclusion with an educational approach.
For more information about the upcoming training dates and registration details, please visit the college's website here, Neurodiversity Certification Program.