A Georgia School District’s transition program for students with disabilities is offering training for the workforce by creating partnerships with area businesses.
Project SEARCH is a school-to-work transition program for special needs students who are at least 18 years old and have completed the requirements to graduate. The program is funded by the Bartow County School System and partners with Cartersville Medical Center to facilitate the training experience for students who need to learn the skills necessary for entry-level positions in the community.
One of the biggest goals for the program is to educate the community regarding Project SEARCH and how it can support local businesses. The program points to its 100 percent job placement for last year’s nine students as evidence of its positive impact.
Another area of focus for Kristy Mitchell, Project SEARCH instructor, is aiding students with transportation needs. While students are in the program, they will be transported to Cartersville Medical Center by Bartow County buses. However, once they complete the program and begin to look for employment Mitchell believes the inability to drive may present a problem for students.
