Cumberland Academy of Georgia announces its newfound partnership with the Kennesaw State University Academy for Inclusive Learning and Social Growth program.

Cumberland Academy of Georgia, an Atlanta-based special needs school, is launching a new and innovative dual enrollment program in partnership with Kennesaw State University. Cumberland’s “Creating Futures” program will be working with KSU’s “Academy for Inclusive Learning and Social Growth” to provide Cumberland’s Career Prep high school seniors with the experience of attending and studying at the college level in the certificate based program. This pilot dual enrollment program will bridge the gap between the Cumberland academic program and the Kennesaw State University Inclusive Learning program.

Two Cumberland Academy of Georgia students participate in dual enrollement program at KSUOnce a week, a group of Cumberland’s Career Prep seniors will visit KSU and participate in their academic program. The students will be integrated into the program, taking a class with other college students. Cumberland students will be assigned KSU mentors, attend social events and complete homework as required by the class. The Cumberland seniors will receive support with adapting to the expectations of college life and feeling a sense of comfort when attending social activities like football games and tailgate gatherings.

“Cumberland is uniquely poised to participate in a pilot program as we are always seeking additional experiences to assist students with their academic and social goals. This new dual enrollment experience will help our students ease into a college experience. We are grateful to the Academy for Inclusive Learning and Social Growth for this opportunity,” said Shari Wright, director of Student Advancement at Cumberland. “Students will train to become proficient in a specific skill and receive a certificate of completion. This program provides students with learning differences an opportunity to experience college and be well prepared for full enrollment in the college program upon graduation.”

The staff at KSU agree. “We are exceptionally pleased at the opportunity to work with students from Cumberland Academy of Georgia. Their presence in this pilot program highlights our dedication to the community and our students,” said Dr. Neil Duchac, the executive director of the Academy for Inclusive Learning and Social Growth at Kennesaw State University. 

About Cumberland Academy of Georgia
Cumberland Academy of Georgia specializes in the needs of students in grades 4 through 12 who have high-functioning autism, Asperger’s syndrome, attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and learning disabilities. Cumberland was founded in 2007 by Debbi and Matthew Scarborough, and is a fully-accredited, independent, non-profit school that seeks to provide a safe and supportive academic atmosphere for its students. Cumberland accepts applications year-round. To schedule a family tour, please contact Jane Paoletta, Director of Admissions, at 404-835-9000, or email admissions@cumberlandacademy.org.