The Project SEARCH program, in collaboration with the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD), has been incredibly successful in providing valuable opportunities for students with disabilities to gain essential job skills and transition into the workforce. For the second year, six students with disabilities from the Okaloosa County School District successfully graduated from the Project SEARCH High School Transition Program on Tuesday, May 21, at the Hilton Garden Inn on Okaloosa Island. The program is for students 18-21 years of age who completed high school credits necessary for graduation and have chosen to defer their diploma. The 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, stated 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." The partnership between the District and the Innisfree Hotels demonstrates the importance of community engagement in supporting students' educational and career goals. Participating students came from Baker School, Crestview High School, Laurel Hill School, and Silver Sands School. "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," stated Kathy Ard, ESE Director for OCSD.
