Adult

The Enrichment Center supports academic growth and vocational readiness by offering tailored tutoring and vocational training services. By focusing on individualized learning plans, this component helps students strengthen essential skills in a way that is engaging and suited to their unique needs, preparing them for future educational and job opportunities.

DSACO offers FREE tutoring to children (age 5+), teens, and adults with Down syndrome. Students will be tutored by our Special Education teacher, Bettie Shadoan. They use the first tutoring session with each new student as an “Assessment Session.” They will work with each student and analyze where they are academically, evaluate areas of strength, and evaluate areas that need focus. Bettie will build upon and track their progress each session. Each tutor creates an individualized learning plan for each student and incorporates dynamic, interactive learning approaches to keep each student engaged and excited to learn. Progress is the goal with each student and our tutors do a phenomenal job of building a relationship with each student and working alongside them to successfully complete each session.

‍Students will need to sign up ahead of time so that the teacher may properly prepare. If you have a conflict and are unable to attend the session you signed up for, please call the office (405-600-9981) and let someone know 24 hours in advance to avoid an absence fee of $5. We ask that you let us know 24 hours in advance as our teacher prepares an individualized lesson plan for each student and DSACO pays her for her time. Please do not sign up for more than one tutoring session a day, as DSACO would like to serve as many families as possible.

The Self Advocacy Center is a post-high school, pre "the rest of your life" nine-month program that meets twice a week to focus on Health and Wellness, Academics/Job Readiness, Community Service, and Social/Relationship skills. Those accepted into the program undergo a goal-oriented curriculum aimed to meet the needs of each individual to help them create a roadmap to becoming more independent throughout their life. Graduates go on to college, jobs, and community involvement.

Applications are closed for the 2024-2025 year!
Please check back in April 2025 for the 2025-2026 application!

DSACO Food Critics is an engaging culinary program for adults (18+) with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities, designed to celebrate the joy of dining out while amplifying their voices. This program has two vibrant chapters: Northside Food Critics, serving the Edmond and OKC area, and Southside Food Critics, focusing on Moore and Norman.

Each month, members of these groups gather at local restaurants to share a meal with friends, enjoying good food and great company. After dining, participants provide valuable feedback by completing a survey that includes questions such as “How easy was it to read the menu?” and “Did the staff treat you like an adult?” Robin Kohn, DSACO’s self-advocate coordinator, collects these insights and shares them in the Food Critics Blog, allowing advocates to reflect on their experiences.

The feedback is also sent directly to restaurant managers, helping them understand how welcoming, inclusive, and accessible their establishments are. The ultimate goal of the Food Critics program is to spotlight local dining spots that embrace inclusivity and accessibility for all.

If you own or manage a restaurant and would like the Food Critics to experience your establishment, please reach out to Robin Kohn at robin@dsaco.org. Join us in celebrating and enhancing the dining experience for everyone!

The DSACO Boundaries and the Basics Toolkit is a modular series designed to empower caregivers and their loved ones with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities to engage in meaningful conversations about essential life topics. This comprehensive toolkit focuses on personal hygiene, relationships, the basics of puberty, personal safety, and establishing healthy boundaries, providing caregivers with the resources they need to guide these important discussions.

Each module is structured to be engaging and accessible, offering caregivers practical information and interactive activities that promote understanding for both themselves and their loved ones. The series begins with personal hygiene, emphasizing the importance of self-care routines and helping caregivers instill confidence in daily practices. As families progress through the toolkit, they explore the complexities of relationships, learning about respect, consent, and effective communication in a supportive manner.

The basics of puberty are addressed sensitively, equipping caregivers to discuss this significant life stage alongside their loved ones. Personal safety is also a crucial focus, providing strategies for recognizing safe and unsafe situations, and highlighting the importance of self-advocacy.

The Boundaries and the Basics Toolkit is designed to foster a collaborative learning environment, encouraging caregivers to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with their loved ones. With the guidance of the toolkit, families can navigate these important conversations together, fostering independence and empowerment as they work toward ensuring the well-being of their loved ones. This toolkit serves as a vital resource for building a solid foundation for healthy and safe lives.