Park Hill’s transition program aids special education students at Embassy Suites

The Park Hill School District Board meeting on February 27, 2025, highlighted the success of the Journey transition program for students aged 18 to 21 with special education plans. This program, hosted at Embassy Suites, focuses on providing students with real-world job experience while developing essential skills for employment.

During the meeting, educators discussed how the program has evolved since its inception, particularly after disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Students participate in hands-on work at the hotel, engaging in tasks such as housekeeping, dishwashing, and customer service. The program emphasizes both hard skills, like cleaning and kitchen duties, and soft skills, including interviewing techniques and workplace interactions.

The educators reported that the majority of students leave the program with job placements, with a goal of securing employment by graduation. They also mentioned the support provided by skills trainers, who assist students with job applications and orientation, ensuring a smooth transition into the workforce.

The program has seen a consistent number of participants each year, with between four to eight students enrolled annually. Educators expressed a desire to expand the program to accommodate more students, as the current venue has limited capacity.

In conclusion, the Journey program exemplifies the Park Hill School District's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for students with special needs, equipping them with the skills necessary for successful employment. The board welcomed questions from attendees, indicating an openness to further discussion about the program's impact and future developments.