Proactive Support for Neurodiverse Students Across RCCD

12/15/2025

Collage of photos of PACT student participants attending workshops across all 3 RCCD colleges

Riverside Community College District is proud to spotlight Promoting Achievable College Transitions (PACT), an innovative district-wide initiative designed to support neurodiverse students as they transition into college and build foundations for academic, social, and career success.

The three-year grant has been extended through June 2027; PACT works collaboratively with all three District colleges to provide a proactive, structured support system for students who identify as neurodivergent. Importantly, students do not need disability documentation to participate; self-identification is sufficient, making the program accessible to those who may not qualify for traditional disability services.

Unlike typical college services that rely heavily on students initiating contact, PACT staff actively reach out and maintain consistent communication throughout the semester. They meet regularly with students to track academic progress, address challenges, and help students build confidence and self-advocacy skills. This proactive approach makes a meaningful difference for students who may hesitate to seek help on their own or who are navigating college expectations for the first time.

A significant goal of PACT is to help students not just enroll but thrive and provide a better understanding of the “hidden steps” of college registration learning essential social and organizational skills that support long-term success.

In addition to individualized guidance, PACT is launching a comprehensive social skills curriculum based on the UCLA Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) framework to help students build and maintain meaningful relationships through structured lessons and practice.

PACT has also expanded its scope to include workforce-readiness support in partnership with Phenix Gateway, which helps pave career trajectories for individuals with disabilities and makes a significant contribution to the workforce economy. These components help students prepare for employment through job-search skills, résumé and cover letter development, and connections with potential employers; supporting transitions from college into meaningful career paths.

The PACT team also works collaboratively with high schools across the region, engaging students early and helping them complete every step of the college enrollment process. By demystifying requirements and providing hands-on guidance, PACT aims to eliminate common barriers that might otherwise prevent students from starting college or remaining enrolled.

Parents and family members are welcomed into the process with student consent, and future workshops are planned to support families as they shift from the K–12 advocacy model to foster greater independence for their young adults.

While currently operating as a grant-funded program, PACT leadership is working toward institutionalizing these services long-term within the district, with the broader vision of creating dedicated engagement spaces and expanded visibility for students who need support.

How Students Can Connect:

PACT services are open to all students across the district who identify as neurodiverse; no paperwork or medical documentation required. Students can: