Student Services
SHINE Program
Are you prepared to embark on a journey towards a successful and promising future? The SHINE program at Rend Lake College has been specifically designed to provide essential support and resources for students with neurodevelopmental disabilities, allowing them to maximize their abilities and achieve their ultimate goals.
What is SHINE?
The SHINE program offered at RLC is not merely an educational route, but rather a life-altering opportunity. With a limited number of spots available for the upcoming school year, we strongly recommend that interested students submit their applications early. Our dedicated team is prepared to visit schools and engage directly with students to help them navigate their post-secondary possibilities.
SHINE represents more than just an acronym; it stands for "SUPPORT HELPING INDIVIDUALS NAVIGATE EDUCATION," a comprehensive program designed to empower individuals and provide them with the necessary skills and resources to secure employment, achieve independence, and foster personal growth.
Through SHINE, participants are equipped with the tools and support needed to succeed in the workforce, gain financial stability, and build confidence in their abilities. This program serves as a pathway towards a brighter and more fulfilling future for all who participate.

Admission Process
Academic Programs
During SHINE’s pilot period, Academic Programs will be limited to:
Application Based
SHINE Requires eligibility and acceptance. Applications are reviewed and interviews assess alignment with the program’s mission.Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates for the SHINE program include individuals diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder, basic literacy skills, respectful behavior, and ability to participate independently.Application Checklist
- SHINE Application Submitted
- Copy of IEP, 504, or5 proof of neurodiverse diagnosis
- SHINE Program needs a copy
- Student needs to be established with Disability Access Services
- FERPA release form
- Informal Interview scheduled by SHINE Director
Academic Programs
During SHINE’s pilot period, Academic Programs will be limited to:
Application Based
SHINE Requires eligibility and acceptance. Applications are reviewed and interviews assess alignment with the program’s mission.Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates for the SHINE program include individuals diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder, basic literacy skills, respectful behavior, and ability to participate independently.Application Checklist
- SHINE Application Submitted
- Copy of IEP, 504, or5 proof of neurodiverse diagnosis
- SHINE Program needs a copy
- Student needs to be established with Disability Access Services
- FERPA release form
- Informal Interview scheduled by SHINE Director

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more about SHINE
Why Choose SHINE?
At SHINE, we recognize the unique strengths and challenges of neurodiverse students. Our mission is to provide tailored academic support and employable skill development, paving pathways to progressive employment opportunities. Through targeted reinforcement, counseling, and campus integration, we foster resilience and promote a sense of belonging. With a dedicated focus on workforce preparedness, we empower our students to achieve their academic and career goals with confidence.
At SHINE, we understand and appreciate the individual strengths and obstacles faced by neurodiverse students. Our goal is to offer customized academic assistance and help build employable skills, opening doors to promising job prospects. By offering specialized support, counseling, and facilitating campus inclusion, we aim to strengthen resilience and foster a sense of community. By emphasizing readiness for the workforce, we aim to embolden our students to reach their academic and professional aspirations with certainty.
Key Offerings
- Wrap-around services
- Employability Skill Training
- Soft-Skill Development
- Executive Functioning Skill Practice
- Personal Enhancement Workshops
- Time Management Development
- Self-Advocacy Information
- Study-Skills Sessions
- Career Planning
- Planning for Money Management
- Internship Guidance
Why Choose SHINE?
At SHINE, we recognize the unique strengths and challenges of neurodiverse students. Our mission is to provide tailored academic support and employable skill development, paving pathways to progressive employment opportunities. Through targeted reinforcement, counseling, and campus integration, we foster resilience and promote a sense of belonging. With a dedicated focus on workforce preparedness, we empower our students to achieve their academic and career goals with confidence.
At SHINE, we understand and appreciate the individual strengths and obstacles faced by neurodiverse students. Our goal is to offer customized academic assistance and help build employable skills, opening doors to promising job prospects. By offering specialized support, counseling, and facilitating campus inclusion, we aim to strengthen resilience and foster a sense of community. By emphasizing readiness for the workforce, we aim to embolden our students to reach their academic and professional aspirations with certainty.
Key Offerings
- Wrap-around services
- Employability Skill Training
- Soft-Skill Development
- Executive Functioning Skill Practice
- Personal Enhancement Workshops
- Time Management Development
- Self-Advocacy Information
- Study-Skills Sessions
- Career Planning
- Planning for Money Management
- Internship Guidance