February 11 '26•Benjamin Demers•College of Adaptive Arts• inclusive• collaboration

Mission and College of Adaptive Arts Partner to Open New Academic Doors

Student with College of Adaptive Arts
Mission College and the College of Adaptive Arts are expanding access to inclusive higher education in the South Bay, hosting a free Open House and Enrollment Day on March 13, 2026, to introduce adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to CAA’s student-centered collegiate programs.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

SANTA CLARA, CA -- Mission College and the College of Adaptive Arts (CAA) are expanding access to inclusive higher education through a growing collaboration designed to serve adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the South Bay and beyond.

As a supportive partner, Mission College is helping the College of Adaptive Arts bring its unique collegiate model to a wider audience while both institutions explore the potential for a long-term expansion. CAA is currently hosted at Mission College’s sister institution, West Valley College, and this collaboration reflects a shared commitment across the West Valley–Mission Community College District to increase access and opportunity for students who live closer to the Mission College campus.
 
To introduce the community to these possibilities, Mission College and the College of Adaptive Arts will host a free Open House and Enrollment Day on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at the Hospitality Management / TAV Building on the Mission College campus. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about CAA’s programs, meet faculty and staff, and experience live demonstrations of CAA classes that showcase the college’s hands-on, student-centered approach to learning.
 
The need for programs like CAA is urgent. Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across all 50 states typically “age out” of traditional postsecondary education by age 21 or 22, creating a significant gap in access to collegiate programs for individuals who are eager to continue learning, building skills, and engaging with their communities.
 
The College of Adaptive Arts addresses this gap by operating on a model similar to the Special Olympics, ensuring that any adult with IDD regardless of age, location, or ability has access to higher education opportunities without age-out limits.
Students with College of Adaptive Arts
Through a growing collaboration across the West Valley–Mission Community College District, Mission College is partnering with the College of Adaptive Arts to broaden educational opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, creating new pathways for lifelong learning close to home.
“This collaboration strengthens the community by creating pathways for students and families who have historically had limited options,” said Alyssa Larios, Director of Disability Support Programs and Services at Mission College. “By working together, Mission College and the College of Adaptive Arts are ensuring that learning, creativity, and connection remain accessible within our local community. The Open House provides an opportunity for community members to connect, learn, and experience the programs offered by the College of Adaptive Arts.”
CAA currently serves more than 320 adults across 12 states and offers courses in 10 schools of study, including Business, Visual Arts, Communication, and Digital Media Studies. Hosting this event at Mission College allows CAA to connect with students who may not fit into traditional two- or four-year programs, including students who may be non-verbal or who have diverse reading, writing, and learning styles.
 
"Adults with IDD are eager to learn, grow and contribute, yet they have historically been excluded from college-level learning," said Nicole Kim, Executive Director of the College of Adaptive Arts. "Partnering with Mission College allows us to open new academic doors in the South Bay and create welcoming, inclusive environments where students can thrive as lifelong learners."
This collaboration strengthens the community by creating new pathways for students and families who have historically had limited postsecondary options. By working together, Mission College and the College of Adaptive Arts are ensuring that learning, creativity, and connection remain accessible within the local community.
 
The Open House and Enrollment Day is open to any prospective adult student with IDD who is 18 years of age or older and interested in pursuing education in a collegiate environment.
 
Event Logistics at a Glance
Benjamin Demers
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
[email protected] 
About Mission College

Mission College is a leading institution of higher education dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality education that empowers students to succeed.

With a commitment to student success, equity, and innovation, Mission College offers a diverse range of academic programs, exceptional faculty, and supportive services to foster a thriving educational community. 


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