Adult Continuing Education (ACE)
Lifelong learning is critical for a self-determined, purposeful life. Our Adult Continuing Education (ACE) program includes distinct and specialized educational services designed for adults with Down syndrome.
ACE services provide adults learning opportunities and social enrichment, helping them build the skills needed for a fulfilling, independent life. ACE participants build meaningful relationships, develop personal responsibility and healthy adult behaviors, and engage in the community through service and social opportunities. ACE also helps prepare and teach skills needed for competitive employment.
OUR PROGRAMS
A comprehensive, structured day program designed to build independent living skills and support lifelong learning.
We offer a robust full day of structured programming focusing on growth and development in the skills of daily living, health and wellness, vocational development, communication, community engagement, social-emotional skills, and safety. Participants in this program also have daily opportunities for physical fitness.
Our ACE Full-Day Services are offered two days per week (Mondays and Wednesdays; or Tuesdays and Thursdays) from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
A rotating enrichment class schedule focuses on social communication, healthy living, employment, entrepreneurship, daily living skills, and personal growth. Our highly trained educators, specialists, and therapists work together to provide a supportive and engaging environment that fosters growth and development.
Our ACE Academy classes run two afternoons per week (Mondays and Wednesdays; or Tuesdays and Thursdays) from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, within spring, summer, and fall service seasons, providing ample opportunity for each participant to learn, grow, and explore new subjects.
Our ACE Social Enrichment class offers a relaxed, social experience designed to foster meaningful relationships, recreation, and fun. This innovative program helps build key skills like social engagement, self-regulation, and leisure skills in a supportive, semi-structured setting.
Our Social Enrichment classes occur on Fridays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, providing excellent opportunities to learn, grow, and make new connections.
ACE is a fee-for-service program significantly subsidized by the generous support of philanthropy. Therefore, it has limited capacity and occasionally has a service waiting list.
ACE Participants must meet the following criteria:
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At least 18 years of age and have a diagnosis of Down syndrome
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Motivated to learn new skills and willing to participate in all learning activities
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Exhibits appropriate behavior for learning with a staff-to-participant ratio of 1:6
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Demonstrates independence in basic daily routines (hygiene, toileting, dressing, mealtime, taking medications required during ACE hours)
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Reliable transportation to and from the ACE program
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Does not demonstrate behaviors that may have the possibility to lead to injury to oneself or others and/or significant disruption of the learning environment.
A comprehensive ACE Intake Process is required for enrollment in ACE services. During your family’s intake appointment, you will have the opportunity to understand all of our service options that match your needs for support before committing to any service. Final service enrollment will be based on family preference, service capacity, program criteria, and staff recommendation.
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MEET OUR TEAM
Kathryn Holmes
Director of Adult Continuing Education
Kathryn Holmes oversees our Adult Continuing Education (ACE) services. She holds a B.A. Elementary and Special Education at Benedictine College and a Master of Science in Education, Secondary Special Education and Transition from the University of Kansas. Kathryn brings more than 30 years of experience in special education, beginning her career as a special education teacher in a classroom setting, and later playing a key role in developing and implementing a highly respected 18–21 transition program. She brings extensive expertise in program development, transition planning, and family support, along with a deep understanding of the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. Kathryn is passionate about building meaningful connections with the individuals and families we serve, creating lifelong learning opportunities, and fostering inclusive communities.
Tyler Goevert
Education Specialist
Tyler Goevert provides dynamic instruction and vital behavior support within our Adult Continuing Education services. Tyler also facilitates a weekly Teen Social Group during our service seasons, focused on providing a fun and meaningful social experience for teens with Down syndrome to develop friendships with their peers and learn effective social skills. Tyler holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Kansas State University and a Master’s of Science in Education with a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis. Tyler is passionate about providing education and support to those who can be overlooked and underserved due to significant behavioral support needs. Tyler emphasizes the importance of a strengths-based approach grounded in empathy and understanding.
Kate Lyle
ACE Instructor
As a valued member of the Adult Continuing Education Team, Kate Lyle plays an integral role in leading instruction and supporting curriculum development across ACE Full Day Programming, ACE Academy, and ACE Social Enrichment. Kate holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Sciences with a minor in Health and Wellbeing from Kansas State University. After completing a semester-long internship in the ACE program, she joined the team full-time as an ACE Instructor. With a strength-based approach to learning, Kate is passionate about fostering meaningful relationships and supporting individualized growth. Beyond her work in ACE, Kate is an active volunteer, where she continues to build inclusive and empowering experiences within the community.
Jessica Fahey
Adult Services Coordinator
Jessica Fahey serves as the initial and primary point of contact for both caregivers and adults with Down syndrome ages 18 and older. Jessica earned a Communication degree and a Sociology minor from the University of San Diego. Jessica has worked alongside and advocated for individuals with developmental disabilities at various non-profits throughout Kansas City for over 12 years. Jessica understands the intricacies of our organization and shares our services and support in a way uniquely adapted for each family. She also has collected a wealth of knowledge regarding resources and like-minded organizations around Kansas City and beyond. She is passionate about connection, community, and equality.
Next Steps? Ready to reach out.
Our team is ready to support you and your loved one and we invite you to fill out our interest form below.
