West Valley Occupational Center’s Disabilities Support Services Program
Submitted By: Francisco Narciso
Los Angeles Regional Adult Education Consortium
Website: https://www.wvoc.net/
Type of Practice: Learner Transition
Program Area(s): ABE / ASE, ESL / EL Civics / Citizenship, CTE / Workforce Prep / Pre-apprenticeship, Adults with Disabilities
Region: Los Angeles Basin
Consortia Involved: Los Angeles Regional Adult Education Consortium
The Program of Practice
Students with disabilities remain underrepresented in adult education due to systemic barriers, misconceptions about their capabilities, and a lack of sufficient accommodations. Many programs lack formal systems to identify and support these learners. West Valley Occupational Center recognized this gap and responded by establishing a structured Disability Support Services (DSS) program to increase visibility, advocacy, and support for students with disabilities. The goal is to shift perceptions, ensuring students are not only seen as able but as essential contributors to the workforce. By actively promoting inclusion and access, this program directly addresses equity gaps and fosters job readiness and educational achievement for this underserved population.
The Response
West Valley Occupational Center’s DSS program supports students with disabilities through early engagement, ongoing accommodations, and instructor collaboration. Students meet with DSS advisors at least twice prior to starting a cohort, again during midterm reporting, and as needed throughout the term. Many students check in weekly. Advisors coordinate individualized accommodations such as assistive technology, course material enlargements, recorded or braille material, and agency referrals. Notices of accommodation are provided to instructors, and further consultation is available upon request. Collaboration with organizations like the California Department of Rehabilitation and the Veterans Administration provides a holistic support network. Instructors are empowered with resources and training to ensure inclusive teaching practices. This comprehensive approach creates equitable access and supports student persistence and success across CTE, academic, and ESL programs.
West Valley Occupational Center’s DSS program provides essential accommodations and advocacy for adult students with verified disabilities. Aligned with CAEP priorities in student equity and workforce preparation, DSS ensures inclusive access to ESL, academic, and CTE pathway programs for all students. DSS advisors support students before, during, and throughout their program journey, coordinating accommodations, referrals, and guidance. Instructors also receive training and resources to foster inclusive classrooms. This comprehensive program uplifts capable, willing students and helps break down barriers to success in adult education and employment.
The DSS model is highly replicable in other adult education settings. Its core components—student advocacy, regular advisor check-ins, instructor collaboration, and agency partnerships—are adaptable and scalable. The system is already positioned for replication within other DACE schools and could be implemented at adult schools statewide. With clearly defined processes, staff roles, and documentation practices, the program can be tailored to local needs while maintaining fidelity. DSS promotes a shift toward equity and inclusion, making it an essential model for expanding disability support in adult education.
The Unique Features of the Program
West Valley Occupational Center’s DSS program integrates advocacy, direct student services, and instructor collaboration in a unified, student-centered approach. Regular check-ins with students and responsive support for instructors ensure consistency and early intervention. DSS builds educator capacity through resource sharing and inclusive teaching guidance. Community partnerships—such as with the Department of Rehabilitation and Veterans Administration—extend support beyond the classroom. Advisors also participate in professional development to improve institutional readiness, including training on service animals in educational settings. DSS has used restorative justice practices to create classroom understanding and inclusion, offering a holistic and innovative model for disability support in adult education.
The Outcome
In the 2024–2025 school year, WVOC’s DSS program supported 199 students across CTE, academic, and ESL programs. Services included intake meetings, accommodations, referrals, and ongoing progress monitoring. Of these students, 30 reached over 400 instructional hours. DSS also worked closely with 19 instructors to provide tailored strategies beyond standard accommodations. One standout success involved a student with Autism Spectrum Disorder and severe anxiety, supported by an ADA-certified service dog. Staff underwent Department of Rehabilitation training to better understand service animal laws. A restorative justice circle helped educate the class about autism and the role of service animals, building empathy and inclusion. The student completed her program and is now licensed with the state of California. DSS continues to document support in DACE-SIS and track outcomes to guide future improvements.