CLAYTON, N.C. — Jeff Holland is deeply invested in his son's education.

What You Need To Know

  • Only six community colleges in N.C. have education programs for special education students

  • Parents want educational and career programs offered at local community colleges

  • Students placed in the life skills group by their schools do not receive a diploma or GED

Recently, his son, Ben Holland, began Spanish lessons. Global languages are one of his favorite interests.

For Ben, who has autism, finding things that pique his interest, but more importantly continue his education after finishing high school, isn’t always easy.

“I am longing to see him continue to grow, and continue to have educational stretching like any of us could have, beyond high school," Jeff Holland said. 

Jeff Holland has helped surround Ben with tutors and activities that stimulate his mind.  

Watching Ben Holland closely, you see he has a longing to learn. 

But without a high school diploma and resources available, filling Ben Holland's days is hard. 

“Every other person who has either gone through high school, has a chance to move onto community college and above, except for this group," Holland said. "In just small tiny pockets across the state, will you find any program set up at all for people like my son, Ben.” 

Jeff Holland believes the answer goes beyond just this room full of books and activities, but rather at their local community college in Johnston County.  

And after Ben Holland told his father he too wanted to go to college like many of his former classmates, Jeff Holland began to push to make his dream come true with programs aimed at educating and connecting these individuals with potential jobs. 

“It’s so important to find out what they are truly interested in, and see what you can do to help prepare some exploration of that job," Jeff Holland said. "To see is there a place there where they can fit in. Is there a place where they can have a portion of their day spent in a career or job?” 

Right now, there are only six community colleges across the state that offer similar programs to what Jeff Holland and his fellow parents are urging for Johnston County and beyond to consider. 

He says its time to stop limiting what these individuals can accomplish. 

“It’s growth, and meaning, and it’s bringing together with his peers," Jeff Holland said. "Being able to see his life not coming to a halt but moving forward with a purpose, that is where the meaning is for me.”