Project SEARCH partnership gives JPS students with disabilities workplace experience at St. Dominic's and other sites

Jackson Public School District described a transition program for students with significant cognitive disabilities that pairs classroom instruction with internships at local worksites through Project SEARCH, facilitated by the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services.

District materials said the program provides real‑life work experiences combined with targeted training in employability and independent living skills. Internship sites named in the presentation included St. Dominic's Hospital, Milwaukee Tools and the Mississippi Division of Medicaid.

Program staff outlined the program structure: a three‑week orientation to identify essential skills and customize adaptations, followed by three 10‑week rotations through different workstations. The program runs five days a week from 8 a.m. to about 2:30 p.m., and staff emphasized use of job coaches at worksites to support hands‑on experience.

Eligibility requirements presented included completion of K–12 education, a demonstrated desire to work, basic communication skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing), ability to manage self‑care and maintain good attendance. Staff described daily classroom time spent on employability skills such as interviewing, dressing for success and mock interviews as part of preparation for job placement.

Hospital and business partners said interns contributed to departments such as environmental services, food and nutrition and supply chain, and business representatives praised interns' dedication and ability to fill high‑turnover roles. District staff said the program aims to prepare participants for meaningful employment and greater independence.