Minot State, Arc of North Dakota urge one-time funding to sustain inclusive postsecondary programs

Minot State University representatives and disability advocates told the House Appropriations Education and Environment Division that inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs statewide need additional state funding to remain stable as federal grant support declines.

At a committee hearing, Lori Garnes, executive director of the North Dakota Center for Persons with Disabilities at Minot State University, said the center and ASTEP — Minot’s inclusive postsecondary program — have produced higher employment and independent-living outcomes for participants and that program expansion across the state is constrained by funding shortfalls.

Garnes said the center is seeking state appropriations beyond the Department of Public Instruction transition funds that have supported programs: “NDCPD at Minot State has the knowledge and ability to assist other universities develop and maintain these kinds of programs. Minot State University’s program is stable and it will…