STEP will take an active approach to actively integrate IPSE students into the Queen’s community by allowing students with intellectual disabilities to participate in various academic and social activities with their fellow students on campus. STEP will strive to provide a chance for young adults with disability to feel welcomed, accepted and comforted at Queen’s, and aim to help break the barrier that makes education for disabilities inaccessible by increasing awareness about inclusive education within the Queen’s and Kingston communities. In 2008, H’Art School of Smiles, in partner with Queen’s University, began a program called Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (IPSE) Program with the objective of providing people with developmental disabilities an opportunity to experience all aspects of post-secondary education. By request of IPSE Program, the Social Transition and Education Program (STEP) organization was formed, for assistance in the integration of students with developmental disability into the Queen’s community. Currently, young adults participating in the IPSE Program know very little about the Queen’s University because they do not have access to the various social resources that can introduce and welcome them into the school’s rich and diverse campus. Based on their interests and personal profiles, STEP will pair up IPSE students with experienced full-time students in hopes of making Queen’s University more accessible and welcoming. Students can explore the community, participate in social and academic events, and join clubs and organizations. Their buddies can also assist them with their school work or provide advice on any issues they may be experiencing.
