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Pursuit FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What do we offer at Pursuit?

We offer year-round classes that equip students of varying abilities to prepare for work and postsecondary opportunities. Every quarter students can select classes that meet their needs and your student can pick and choose which topics and times are most relevant and suited to them in this season. Our program’s unique connection to certificates and training programs through our college makes it ideal for students with disabilities to access work and training opportunities. Not only have our connections with the Advanced Manufacturing Skills Center, culinary/baking, and nursing programs allowed our students to build confidence, but we also find that students see themselves in these spaces while participating in our program. We are proud to offer a variety of in-person and online classes throughout the year to set students up for success in internships and competitive job opportunities.

What are we about?

We are a program created by and for people with disabilities who are passionate about being:

“Rooted in our diverse strengths to bring access to opportunities, cultivate belonging for all, and empower people of all abilities to thrive.”

Since 2018, we have equipped students with self-advocacy and self-empowerment to face post-secondary challenges with more confidence and skills. We believe that, as a community outside of high school that strives to create change for people with disabilities, we invite all to join us in our hope to make thriving a present and tangible reality.

Am I a good fit for Pursuit classes?

Typically, our students:

  • are 14-22 years old and older (with the 'pay for' and DDA Life Skill hours option)
  • want to gain skills in self-advocacy and workplace readiness, create a functional resume, and access informational interviews and partake in job site tours
  • have an IEP, 504, or some type of documented disability or condition they are managing
  • can work independently and safely in a college environment and are not a harm to themselves or those around them.

Please reach out if you have any questions: 425.640.1685 | christanna.fatty@edmonds.edu

How much do Pursuit classes cost?

Classes are accessible to all students through a ‘pay for’ option that ranges from $120 to $420, depending on the number of class hours. For those with financial barriers, a one-time scholarship is available per quarter, subject to availability.

** If you are not connected to either of these two services, please check out the links above to see if you are eligible so that you can get our support and others like it, now!

What qualifies me for a scholarship?

Though scholarships are offered based on availability, we do not discriminate based on any factors that qualify a person for a scholarship. We trust that if you have a need and we have the capability, we will do our best to meet you where you are.

Are refunds available for those who utilize the ‘pay for’ options?

Those who have paid for the classes can receive a full refund if they notify us at least 2 business days before the first class. Other refund options are available in the event of a medical emergency, but they are offered on a case-by-case basis.

We encourage most of our students to use our programming through funding sources such as Pre-ETS and DDA life skills, so that they can access it at no cost. We especially encourage this if they are unsure whether this program is a good fit at first, because we believe that connecting with these resources has long-term benefits.

What is Pursuit RISE?

Pursuit RISE is a NEW branch of Pursuit that offers more hands-on experiences that prepare students for teamwork and self-leadership. Though it is less academically focused, it allows students to grow in self-empowerment, safety awareness, and advocacy, interpersonal and social communication, and skills to face transitions and everyday challenges.

When I register, do I sign up for all the classes?

No, the uniqueness of our program is that you can choose the modality (in person or online) that works best for you (depending on your job or schedule). Though we recommend that students take our classes each quarter to get the most out of the community and its offerings, we offer flexibility so students and families can balance their other priorities.

What support services are available in Pursuit?

Instructors are trained or equipped to support students with disabilities, and there is always a 1:15 teacher-to-student ratio in classrooms. Job site tours have a 1:5 student ratio.

Did I finish my registration if I completed the Google form?

Not yet, but you're almost there!

Depending on the funding source you indicated, you may be:

We're here to help. Contact us at 425.640.1685 or pursuit@edmonds.edu.

What training and opportunities do students get in Pursuit?

Pursuit offers 15-30 hours of in-person or virtual training each quarter. The topics range from transportation and independence training to executive functioning skill-building to workplace safety, presented by experts in the field. The training focuses on workplace readiness, self-advocacy, peer mentoring, and work-based learning experiences like job site tours, job shadowing, and informational interviews. Students can also connect with one paid internship every 12 months, depending on availability and a good match.

Is transportation provided?

Transportation is currently not provided for our in-person classes. Edmonds College is a transit center connected to the light rail and accessible through Community Transit. Please check out our transit page for different options. For those driving, students can park in the visitor's lot (Lot L, on the southeast corner of campus) or obtain a parking permit for the quarter.

What is DVR?

The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) is a statewide resource that assists people with disabilities in preparing for, securing, maintaining, advancing in, or regaining employment. DVR partners with businesses and organizations to develop employment opportunities. They serve people who seek meaningful and secure employment but whose disabilities may create one or more barriers to achieving employment goals.

What is Pre-ETS?

It stands for pre-employment transition services and is a term used by the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). Students are eligible for Pre-ETS if they are 14-21 years old, have an IEP, 504, or another documented disability, are enrolled in an educational program, and have submitted a Pre-ETS form. We believe every student should have this form signed and included in their IEP or 504 folder to access services throughout their time in school.
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