First school of its kind to gain FSA approval
Shepherds College, a three-year post-secondary school for young adults with intellectual disabilities, located in Union Grove, recently announced it has been approved for Federal Student Aid (FSA).
The college’s programming attracts students from around Wisconsin as well as the nation.
The decision by the U.S. Department of Education makes Shepherds College the first U.S. school designed for this population to be approved for this program.
FSA ensures that all eligible individuals can benefit from federally funded financial assistance for education beyond high school.
Since Shepherds College admitted its first class of students in 2008, parents have had to privately fund their child’s education.
With the opportunity to gain assistance through grants and loans, the dream of a college experience is more accessible to people with intellectual disabilities.
“In the past, the biggest concern for parents of potential students was, ‘How do we pay for school?’” said Chris Wright, director of admissions at Shepherds College.
“Parents of individuals with intellectual disabilities haven’t had a chance to fiscally prepare for an advanced education.
“Now, with FSA as an option, families can see past the barrier of finances.”
One of her family’s ongoing fears has been about “how would be able to afford to keep our daughter at Shepherds College,” said Tina Goldstone, a parent of a Shepherds College student.
The Shepherds College program offers her daughter the best chance of living an independent and productive future, explained Goldstone.
“Having an opportunity for her to receive FSA has greatly relieved our worries. This will help give our daughter and all of the other students at Shepherds College a much brighter futures,” added Goldstone.
For more information, visit online at www.shepherdscollege.org.
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