Six students with disabilities from the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) successfully graduated from the Project SEARCH High School Transition Program on Tuesday, May 21, at the Hilton Garden Inn on Okaloosa Island.
- This marks the second year of the program’s success in providing valuable opportunities for students to gain essential job skills and transition into the workforce.
The Project SEARCH program, in collaboration with OCSD, is designed for students aged 18-21 who have completed the necessary high school credits for graduation but have chosen to defer their diploma. Students are referred to the program through the school district to participate in the business-led collaboration that enables young adults with disabilities to gain and maintain employment through career exploration and on-the-job training.
“This continued success underscores the effectiveness and importance of the program in providing valuable opportunities for these students to develop essential job skills and confidently transition into the workforce,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “The commitment of the school district and community partners like the Hilton Garden Inn demonstrates a dedication to inclusivity and empowering students with disabilities to achieve their full potential.”
- Participating students came from Baker School, Crestview High School, Laurel Hill School, and Silver Sands School. The partnership between the District and Innisfree Hotels demonstrates the importance of community engagement in supporting students’ educational and career goals.
Kathy Ard, ESE Director for OCSD, expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, “It’s heartwarming to hear about the positive impact this program has had not only on the students but also on the staff at the hotel. I’m sure the future looks bright for these students as they embark on their careers with newfound confidence and skills.”
To learn more about Project Search, visit www.projectsearch.us.
