Strong partnerships are a key part of Spartan Project SEARCH.
Recently, program leaders participated in a statewide professional development day hosted by Michigan Project SEARCH, bringing together business liaisons, transition staff, instructors, and community partners from across Michigan.
The gathering provided an opportunity to share strategies, brainstorm solutions, and collaborate on ways to improve opportunities and outcomes for student interns.
Project SEARCH programs rely on strong collaboration between schools, employers, and community agencies to prepare young adults with disabilities for competitive employment.
By connecting with colleagues from across the state, the Spartan Project SEARCH team was able to exchange ideas and bring new strategies back to support students in the Ingham County program.
Another important event supporting the program’s future was Skills Assessment Day.
Prospective students for the 2026-27 school year visited the program to participate in hands-on activity stations led by community partners, including:
- Ingham ISD
- Michigan Rehabilitation Services
- Michigan State University
Current interns also participated in the event, helping guide applicants through the stations and sharing insights about their experiences in the program.
The day gave applicants a chance to learn more about the program while showcasing the leadership and confidence current interns have developed during their time in Spartan Project SEARCH.
Events like these demonstrate the collaborative network supporting the program — and the shared commitment to helping students build the skills and independence needed for the workforce.
Recent Stories:
When school leaders work together, student voices grow stronger. Representatives from Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, and Shiawassee Counties recently gathered through the CARES Collaborative to meet with legislative officials and discuss education priorities, school funding, and the future of public education across the region. The CARES Collaborative—Capital Area Regional Education Strategy—was formed to strengthen regional advocacy efforts and ensure schools have a stronger, more unified voice in policy conversations.
Graduation season is about more than ceremonies—it’s about preparing students for what comes next. Recently, Wilson Talent Center students in the Criminal Justice and Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics programs celebrated senior send-offs filled with recognition, encouragement, and lessons from professionals already working in the field. At Wilson Talent Center, students gain hands-on experience across 20 career-focused programs designed to help them build real-world skills and confidence for life after high school.
