First class of PEERS students graduate

Among many notable College of Education students who graduated May 6, was the first class of four graduates from the Providing Exceptional Education and Raising Standards (PEERS) Program, who have earned certificates in Community and Career Readiness Studies from the Department of Early and Special Education. The PEERS Program is an inclusive, two year postsecondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities. Students in the program spend time together doing on and off-campus activities, and learn to juggle employment along with coursework and activities as part of the program. Three of the four 2023 graduates worked at the Boise State Rec Center while completing the program.

Carter Anderson

Anderson’s favorite course at Boise State was a university foundations class that used comic book superheroes to teach about ethics and diversity. He enjoys riding his bike, video games, and Boise State athletics. Anderson worked at the Recreation Center during his time at Boise State.

Ian Peachey

Peachey is a huge sports fan and would love to be a sports commentator in the future. He also enjoys reading, drawing, and being active. One of the big lessons Ian learned while being a student was to make sure to create and stick to a budget. Peachey also worked at the Recreation Center as a student.

“I got to hang out with a lot of students in the program, I also got to go bowling and I enjoyed going to classes,” Peachey said. “My plans for the future are to hopefully get a job at a gym and be able to live in my own house someday.”

Ryan McKay

McKay is a big Bronco sports fan. During his time at Boise State he has learned to ask for help when he needs it and how to introduce himself to peers and professors. One of the big lessons McKay learned as a student was the importance of managing his time while he worked at the Recreation Center.

Spencer Wheat

Wheat has been taking classes at Boise State for a few years and is proud to be a graduate after completing the PEERS Program. He believes that it is important to be a lifelong learner and enjoys meeting new people and making time for friends. Wheat is looking forward to working at the BoDo movie theater in downtown Boise.

“When it comes to the best moments I’ve had at college, it’s the PEERS program itself,” Wheat said. “Like my grandma always said, ‘No two days are ever alike’. What we do in the program applies to life and is a learning experience. It took 3 years, but it’s worth it, and I have some good ideas for the future – like being a part of expanding programs like PEERS across Idaho and beyond.”