Jump over primary content.

Home > News & Events

HALO Program at Heartland

Welcome to HALO

The Heartland Academy for Learning Opportunities (HALO) is a new program offered by Heartland Community College designed to provide access to higher education for students with intellectual disabilities who are interested in continuing their education in a supportive, yet challenging, learning environment. Working with Heartland faculty, student body and community volunteers, HALO students receive a first-rate educational experience as well as exposure to various social and enrichment opportunities.

What is the HALO Program?

HALO is designed to offer a supportive and inclusive college experience for adults with intellectual disabilities in order to enhance quality of life and build work readiness skills. It is a two-year, noncredit program offering two one-year certificates of completion, Level 1 and Level 2 Certificates.

Students participate in HALO as a cohort of no more than twelve students. The small class sizes ensure that students receive individualized attention and a program tailored to meet their unique needs. Following the academic calendar of Heartland, HALO offers 16-week sessions in both the fall and spring semesters. There are no summer classes offered to HALO students.

Students receive nontransferable completion units and graduates receive a Certificate of Completion.

What types of courses are included in the HALO program?

Students in HALO complete specially designed courses each semester in different areas. The following areas are part of the HALO program:

  • Functional Academic Areas (math, reading, writing)
  • Computer Technology
  • Career Exploration and Development
  • Independent Living

Is HALO right for us?

Appropriate candidates for HALO will have:

  • A history of receiving special education services
  • Reading, math and written language skills at a third grade level or above (isolated skill deficiencies may be acceptable depending on overall ability)
  • The ability to participate in most program or class activities
  • Sufficient emotional stability to adjust to all aspects of the program

Who can apply, and what is the application process?

To apply for admission to HALO, prospective students must follow the steps below.

  1. Complete the HALO application* by May 31st.
    (available in PDF format, 2 pages, 44 KB)
  2. Submit a psychological report including written results and interpretations (must contain results from a standardized IQ and achievement test). Testing must have been completed within the last 4 years.
  3. Submit high school transcripts.
  4. Submit three letters of recommendation*.
    (available in PDF format, 8 pages, 145 KB)
  5. HALO faculty and staff will also interview each qualified applicant.

*Note: You must download and install Adobe® Acrobat® Reader? in order to view and print the HALO forms.

What does it cost to participate in HALO?

Tuition for the HALO Program is $1,650 per semester which includes four courses and all instructional materials.

Where can I get more information?

Heartland Academy for Learning Opportunities
Attn: Jennie Kearney
1500 West Raab Road
Normal, IL 61761

Phone: (309) 268-8255
Fax: (309) 268-7877
Email: Halo