Program Highlights

Project FOCUS utilizes the most current and well-researched best practices to support our students in their inclusive post-secondary environment, resulting in a uniquely successful transition experience at the University of Arizona.


Every student begins their college journey with a Person-Centered Plan (PCP) gathering.  This is a celebration of their accomplishments and an opportunity for those who know them best to help guide our team in developing a strong roadmap for a successful two years in our program.  During this event, our students and their invited guests contribute information to provide a fuller picture of who they are now and their future goals.

male student sitting and smiling in front of poster adverstising his PCP gathering

Excited to get started!

screen shot of a PDF listing all of the qualities of a student brainstormed during their PCP gathering

Getting to know our new students

female student standing and smiling in front of her PCP poster

The smile says it all!

screen shot of a PDF listing all of the excitement and worries about college brainstormed during their PCP gathering

Everybody's thoughts on college

female student dabbing in front of her PCP poster

Yeah girl, uh-huh!

screen shot of a PDF listing the academic likes and dislikes of a student brainstormed during their PCP gathering

Learning about academic preferences

screen shot of zoom PCP meeting with everyone smiling

Now family from afar can participate!

screen shot of an online poster board filled with post-it notes about student

The Big Picture!

screen shot of zoom PCP meeting with everyone giving the wildcat hand symbol

Go Cats!!

screen shot of a PDF listing all of the fun things students like to do brainstormed during their PCP gathering

Gaining that holistic perspective

male student standing and smiling in front of his PCP poster

Standing tall and feeling proud!

screen shot of a PDF listing all of successful strategies brainstormed during their PCP gathering

Digging deeper into supports


One of our best practices is Student-Led IEPs in which every student leads their annual meeting by creating and practicing their multi-media presentation given to family, friends, teachers and others attendees.

male student standing in front of IEP attendees presenting

Student leading his IEP meeting

male student presenting his IEP in a Zoom meeting

Virtual IEP meeting

group of students standing in front of conference room smiliing with wildcat sign

Celebrating after a successful meeting

female student standing in front of IEP presentation signing as she leads the meeting

Student signing as she leads her meeting

male student reading first slide of presentation

Student welcoming everyone to a meeting

male student sharing his screen on zoom with first welcome slide of IEP presentation

Kicking things off during a virtual meeting