The National Center for Education Statistics reported that less than 15% of neurodiverse students attend a college or university in Texas. The Lone Star College lifePATH program prepares students with cognitive disabilities for their next steps by offering them practical life skills and a college education. 

“The lifePATH program is a robust, intentional educational pathway approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to provide this population of students with more alternatives and an opportunity to earn an Occupational Life Skills associate degree,” said Lee Ann Nutt, Ed.D., LSC-Tomball president. The program is available at LSC-Tomball and LSC-Montgomery. 

Many students enrolled in LSC lifePATH may not qualify for traditional financial aid options. This is why LSC Foundation and generous donors, like Michelle Heinz, stepped in to provide funding to ensure these students have the resources they need to be successful. 

“Lone Star College lifePATH offers numerous accommodations and activities that tuition does not cover,” said Heinz. “There is never enough money in a budget for most programs like lifePATH and many do not survive without donations. Our contribution is our way of saying thank you for offering this invaluable service.”  

Heinz found the LSC lifePATH program at LSC-Tomball after years of negative encounters with other organizations that left her son, Nick, in despair with no hope for his future. They credit LSC’s program for providing the building blocks to set Nick and other students up for success. 

“Lone Star College lifePATH is a rare program that offers a positive environment with supportive accommodations to help neurodiverse students thrive in the real world,” said Heinz. “Nick has had a wonderful experience and is more confident, academically and socially. lifePATH has truly changed the trajectory of his life.” 

LSC lifePATH is a post-secondary program assisting students in developing independence, exercising self-determination, practicing necessary social expectations and engaging in career exploration. Heinz believes those who complete the program are eager, trained and ready to enter the workforce.  

“There is an incredible need to educate, hire and support neurodiverse students,” said Heinz. “I hope the community gives our kids a chance. They are the hardest workers; they want to please; and they will do a great job.” 

Nick enrolled in LSC lifePATH in fall 2022 and will complete the program in spring 2026. He plans to attend a four-year university and pursue a career as a realtor, specializing in ranch real estate. 

LSC lifePATH offers an Occupational and Life Skills Associate Degree, case management services and a two-year noncredit program. Learn more at LoneStar.edu/lifePATH.