Supporting college access, learning, and employment (SCALE) project

Northern Arizona University received a $499,602 Project Grant from the Department of Education's Office of Postsecondary Education under the Transition Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities into Higher Education program (CFDA 84.407) effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. Through the Supporting College Access, Learning, and Employment (SCALE) Project, the university will develop and deliver a model comprehensive transition and postsecondary program designed to promote the successful integration of students with intellectual disabilities into higher education at its Flagstaff, Arizona campus.

The SCALE Project supports NAU's mission to create inclusive educational pathways for students with intellectual disabilities through demonstrable transition programming. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution and prime grant recipient, NAU will partner with local educational agencies to serve students with intellectual disabilities who remain eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The award supports up to five years of grant funding subject to appropriations availability and reflects the Department's priorities for equitable geographic distribution, underserved area programming, and model demonstration initiatives that may inform broader institutional practice in disability-inclusive higher education.