28-05-2025
5 Okaloosa County School District students graduate from Project SEARCH program
OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. (WKRG) — Five Okaloosa County School District students with disabilities graduated from a special program last week, ready to start their new careers.
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According to an OCSD news release, the Project SEARCH High School Transition Program celebrated its third consecutive graduation at the Hilton Garden Inn on Okaloosa Island.
The program teaches young adults with disabilities the essential job skills and workforce training needed to enter the workforce when they complete the program, the release said.
The program is designed for students 18 to 21 years old who have completed their high school credits but have deferred their diploma to participate in Project SEARCH, the release said.
'Project SEARCH fosters career exploration and on-the-job training through a business-led collaboration with community partners,' the release said.
'Project SEARCH is life-changing for these students, offering them the skills and confidence to thrive in the workforce,' OCSD Superintendent Marcus Chambers said. 'The dedication of our educators and community partners reflects our commitment to inclusivity and student success.'
This year's class included students from Baker, Crestview, Laurel Hill and Silver Sands high schools.
'It's inspiring to see the profound impact this program has — not just on our students but also on the staff who support them,' Exceptional Student Education Director Kathy Ard said. 'As they step into their careers, they do so with a new level of confidence and capability, ready for success.'
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Interested students can apply for the program between August and the end of March of their senior year. Applicants participate in an interview and assessment, and final selections are made by the end of April for the next school year, the release said. Those participating do not receive their diploma until they have completed Project SEARCH.
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