WNC seeking students for free college readiness program designed for youth with disabilities

Courtesy WNC Public Relations

Western Nevada College is encouraging eligible students to enroll in its College Readiness Education for Students in Transition (CREST) program before the Aug. 5 enrollment deadline. The free program helps students with disabilities build the academic, personal and career skills needed to successfully transition to college and the workforce. The program is funded through the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation (DETR). WNC's Disability Support Services currently has nine students enrolled for the Summer 2026 cohort and is seeking at least three more participants to meet the program's minimum enrollment requirement.

Students may qualify if they:

• Have a documented disability;
• Are between the ages of 16 and 21; and
• Plan to enroll in additional Fall 2026 classes at Western Nevada College.

The three-week program provides students with a supportive introduction to college while helping them develop confidence, independence and practical skills for future success. 

Participants receive one college credit for CEP 121, with tuition, supplies and a loaner laptop fully covered through DETR funding. CREST also offers personalized academic support, peer connections and opportunities to explore career pathways through hands-on learning experiences. 

Program highlights include:

• Orientation: Aug. 6, 10–11 a.m., Carson City campus
• Classes: Aug. 10–27, Monday through Thursday, 9–11:30 a.m.
• Hybrid instruction with two in-person and two Zoom class sessions each week
• Educational field trips to the Nevada Legislature, JAC bus system, Liberty Dogs and Carson Tahoe Hospital.

“Our goal is to give students the tools, confidence and support they need to succeed in college and beyond,” said Susan Trist, director of Disability Support Services at Western Nevada College. "CREST helps students become comfortable navigating the college environment while building skills that will benefit them throughout their education and careers.”

Interested students and families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. For more information or to determine eligibility, contact Susan Trist at [email protected] or 775-445-4459.