High Road Academy of Howard County September 2025 Student Spotlight: Thomas H.

For the third consecutive year, Thomas had the opportunity to attend the Project Access Summer Institute, a college preparatory program held on the campus of Howard Community College. The four-week program is designed to support the transition of high school students with disabilities into post-secondary education.

This summer, Thomas was enrolled in a “Senior Intro” class, which focused on the college admissions process, services available to students receiving academic accommodations, and identifying appropriate financial aid opportunities. “The course helped me a lot with [planning for] steps after high school, applying for college, researching courses and clubs, and financial aid,” Thomas stated.

Project Access also increased Thomas’ awareness of navigating a college schedule and campus. He shared that he feels more prepared for college “because now I have the skills for when I’m actually on the campus.” Thomas also enjoyed the Wellness class, which provided strategies for managing college life and options for coping with stress. “If you feel stressed, you can do yoga or go for a walk,” Thomas noted.