JET Instructors Rosemary Brbot & Jason Dauvin – photo 250 News

Prince George, B.C. – The College of New Caledonia is celebrating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities at its Prince George campus this afternoon.

It features exhibitors and activities for the public as well as student service representatives to provide information for prospective students.

“We wanted to join with our international colleagues around the world to just say yes – we think people can do what they need to do with a little bit of help,” says director of student services Mary Anne Tierney.

She says the college has between 111 to 120 students with disabilities (ranging from cognitive disabilities to physical and mental) and has worked hard to make the campus more disability friendly.

“If a student comes to us we would be able to negotiate with their instructor to get them things like extra time for writing exams and a private, quiet exam room. We can also provide them with digital recorders if they can’t write well.”

On top of that the campus has automatic sliding doors, elevators, water fountains and adjustable tables in classrooms.

The school also offers its JET and Target Programs to assist students with disabilities find their way into the work place.

“Students come into the program with some form of barrier to employment and so we try to find out where they’re at in their career direction and what steps we need to take to take them to the next level,” says placement coordinator Jason Dauvin.

He says in recent years society seems to have come a long way in accepting persons with disabilities into the work force.

“Prince George has been great. I think there’s been a lot of moves in the last few years. All the employers have been really good to talk with and when students go out they end up finding a buddy or mentor at the place to help guide them.”

If you’d like to learn more today’s event runs until 2 p.m. at CNC’s Gathering Place.