RSS1- Disability, Diversity & Society: Online class

This 9-week introductory course (August 20- October 25, 2025) benefits individuals working in the public sector that may interact with people who have disabilities, as well as employees of community programs serving individuals with disabilities. This class will explore the dynamics of societal views of disability, as a part of human diversity, and the inclusion of people with disabilities in everyday life. The relationships between societal institutions and the needs of persons with disabilities are examined in light of both historical and contemporary trends. An understanding of the factors impacting quality of life for individuals with disabilities are achieved through student interviews and observations conducted in community and social settings. Students will gain understanding of the San Diego Regional Center Residential Vendorization Process, and have opportunity to begin preparation of thier Residential Vendorization Application.

This course satisfies requirements for Part I of the San Diego Regional Center’s Residential Specialist Certificate.

NOTE: This is a college-level course. Participants should expect to devote 4-10 hours per week to course work.

Mode of Instruction: Online; Virtual Classroom Meeting vis ZOOM take place during the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 8th and 9th weeks of class.

Course Dates: August 20- October 25, 2025

Course Cost: $350.00

Payment/Refund and Cancellation Policy: Please see our Frequently Asked Questions Page for our policies.

GROUP RATES may be available.

Contact Dr. Janice Melroy: janice.melroy@gcccd.edu with any questions about Disability Support Services Program (registration, certificates, rates, etc.)

Contact Instructor "Jerry" Godinez: gerardo_godinez@gcccd.edu with questions specific to this course.

**Additional Information: As a Corporate College student, I understand and consent for Grossmont-Cuyamaca Corporate College to use my image for marketing/advertising purposes, including but not limited to including such image in flyers or other marketing tools and on the Corporate College Website.

I further understand that If I do not wish to give consent, I will notify Corporate College in writing prior to the start of each course.

About Our Instructors

Gerardo "Jerry" Godinez MSC:

Jerry is a dedicated professional with over 19 years of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). His work has consistently focused on improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through compassionate, empathetic care.

Since 2011, Jerry has served as an Adult Residential Facility (ARF) administrator and has played a pioneering role as the Senior Manager for California’s first two dementia care homes for aging adults with I/DD.With a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Dementia Studies from the University of Stirling in the UK, his commitment to continuous learning is evident through the completion of the Residential Services Specialist program and the Disability Services Management Certificate from Grossmont College.A National Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), Jerry has also taught courses approved by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and the California Board of Registered Nursing, providing continuing education for ARF and RCFE administrators and registered nurses. Additionally, Jerry is an approved Regional Trainer for the National Task Group on Intellectual Disabilities and Dementia (NTG).

An active advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities and dementia, Jerry is passionate about raising awareness, educating others, and delivering high-quality training that drives meaningful change.