Exceptional Adult Education

Program Overview

Exceptional Adult Education at Carteret Community College offers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to continue learning in a supportive college environment while building the skills needed for greater independence, employment, and community involvement.

Our program combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning experiences that encourage students to apply new skills in real-world settings. Courses focus on communication, literacy, technology, workplace readiness, independent living, health and wellness, financial literacy, and personal development. Instruction is designed to meet students where they are while encouraging continued growth and achievement.

Learning extends beyond the classroom through educational field trips, volunteer projects, recreation, and community partnerships. Students may participate in Special Olympics, environmental education activities with the North Carolina Coastal Federation, recreation programs with Carteret County Parks and Recreation, and outdoor learning experiences through our partnership with Boundless Horizons at Camp Albemarle. These experiences help students build confidence, strengthen social skills, develop teamwork, and become active members of the community.

Exceptional Adult Education recognizes that every student has unique strengths, interests, and goals. Our instructors provide a welcoming and encouraging environment where students are challenged to learn, grow, and celebrate their achievements while developing the skills needed for lifelong success.

The Student Experience

Students have the opportunity to participate in classes and activities that promote:

• Academic and literacy skills
• Technology and digital literacy
• Employment readiness and workplace success
• Financial literacy
• Health and wellness
• Independent living skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Community engagement
• Career exploration
• Personal growth and lifelong learning

Our goal is to help every student build confidence, develop practical skills, increase independence, and become an active participant in both the workplace and the community.

We invite students, families, caregivers, and community partners to join us in creating opportunities that inspire learning, encourage independence, and celebrate every achievement—big or small. We look forward to welcoming you to the Exceptional Adult Education family at Carteret Community College.

Program Requirements

Exceptional Adult Education is designed for adults who are ready to continue learning, build independence, and actively participate in a supportive college environment. Students interested in the program should:

• Be 18 years of age or older.
• Have an intellectual or developmental disability or other qualifying disability appropriate for the program.
• Demonstrate a desire to learn and actively participate in classroom and community-based activities.
• Be able to participate safely and appropriately in a group learning environment.
• Be able to independently manage meals, medications, and personal care needs during the program day, as Exceptional Adult Education does not provide personal care services or one-on-one supervision. Students who require these supports may participate with an approved personal support person when appropriate.
• Follow classroom expectations and the Carteret Community College Student Code of Conduct.