2-Year Program

The HALO 2-Year Certificate Pathway exists to prepare students for adulthood by fostering independence, self-advocacy, and personal responsibility. Through a combination of academic learning, campus engagement, and real-world experiences, students strengthen life skills, build confidence, and enjoy a rewarding college experience that supports their individual growth and goals.

Through a combination of coursework, campus engagement, and supported independence, students learn to navigate college life, strengthen daily living skills, and prepare for their future goals.

What Students Gain in the HALO 2-Year Program

HALO students participate in a variety of social, academic, and enrichment experiences that help them grow in key areas such as:

Developing independence and time-management skills
Building confidence in decision-making
Taking responsibility in academic and daily routines
Learning to self-advocate and communicate needs effectively
Engaging fully in a supportive, meaningful college experience

These experiences help students learn how to manage their schedules, navigate campus resources, participate in clubs and activities, and take active steps towards their personal and professional goals.

2-Year Program Course Sequence

Students in the HALO 2-Year Program take two courses each semester on a rotating schedule. Classes meet two days per week, providing a structured and supportive learning environment.

For students beginning the program in Fall 2026, the course rotation is as follows:

Fall 2026

Community Awareness
Health & Wellness

Spring 2027

Exploration of Independent Living
Math for Life

Fall 2027

Computer Technology
Social Development

Spring 2028

Cooking Skills (8-week course)
Money Skills (8-week course)
Reading & Writing for Life (16-week course)

Additional Course Opportunities

After the first semester, students who wish to explore additional credit-bearing or inclusive audited courses based on career goals or personal interests can collaborate with HALO staff to discuss available options and design a plan that supports their individual pathway.

How do I know if the HALO 2-Year Program is right for me?

The HALO 2-Year Program is designed for students who want to build independence, strengthen academic and life skills, and fully engage in the college experience within a structured and inclusive environment. While meeting the criteria below does not guarantee admission, they can help determine whether the program is a good fit for you.

You may be a good fit for the HALO 2-Year Program if you:

Have a history of receiving special education services.
Demonstrate reading, math, and written language skills at approximately a third-grade level or above.
- Some isolated skill gaps may be accepted depending on your overall strengths and abilities.
Can participate in most program activities and meet classroom expectations.
Show sufficient emotional stability to adjust to the academic, social, and independent living components of the program.

How do I apply for the HALO 2-Year Program?

Schedule a Campus Visit

Get an inside view of HALO: explore campus, stop by a class, talk with students, and learn about our program and application process, all in one welcoming visit.

The best way to learn about HALO is to schedule a campus visit for you, the student, and at least one parent or adult supporter. A campus visit gives you a clear, firsthand look at what life at Heartland is like and helps you imagine your next steps as a HALO student.

During your visit, you will:

Learn what it is like to be a Heartland student and get a feel for daily life in the HALO program.
Receive detailed information about our programs, including both the 2-Year Program and the Transition Year.
Hear about the application process for the 2026–2027 school year, including timelines and what to expect.
Tour the Heartland campus, exploring key spaces and resources available to HALO students.
Visit a HALO class and talk with some of our current students.
Ask questions so you can make informed decisions about your next steps.

Application Materials

After completing a campus visit, students may begin the application process for the HALO Program. All components of the Application Packet must be submitted to be considered for admission. Application materials for the 2026–2027 academic year will be available beginning in March 2026.

Application Packet Includes:

HALO Application
Junior Year IEP
Official High School Transcripts
Official College Transcripts (if applicable)
Two HALO Recommendation Forms

The HALO application and recommendation forms are submitted automatically when completed online. All additional materials may be emailed to halo@heartland.edu or dropped off at the HALO offices.

Important Deadlines & Admission Details

All materials must be submitted by July 6, 2026.
After all materials are received, the HALO team will schedule an interview to ensure the program is a good match for the student's needs and goals.
Submitting the application does not guarantee admission.
Admission decisions are made annually prior to the Fall semester. Students are not admitted mid-year.

Contact Us

Location

1500 W. Raab Road
Normal, IL 61761
Email: halo@heartland.edu
Phone: 309-268-8255

Staff

Karin Orwig

Coordinator, HALO

Karin.Orwig@heartland.edu

Jill Warren

Coordinator, SAAS, HALO

Jill.Warren@heartland.edu

Ashley Rogucki

Program Facilitator, HALO

Ashley.Rogucki@heartland.edu

Social Media

HALO Facebook Page