The Department of Education is funneling millions into post-secondary programs for students with intellectual disabilities at 27 colleges and universities.

The grants totaling $10.9 million will help bolster programs designed to incorporate those with special needs on college campuses through a focus on academics as well as job skills, socialization and independent living.

At Bergen Community College in New Jersey, for example, funding will be used to offer job coaches to 100 students with disabilities and assist with finding work. Students will also be paired with peer mentors to help in academic and social environments.

“President Obama has set a goal for America to have the highest percentage of college graduates in the world by 2020,” Education Secretary Arne Duncan said. “These new programs make an important contribution toward that goal by giving students with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to receive a quality post-secondary education with the supports they need to attend, complete and succeed in higher education.”

The funding is expected to be doled out for five years to the programs located in 23 states.

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