Education Unpacked: Episode 06 | Project SEARCH

When the school bell rings for the last time, not every student is ready to jump straight into a job or college. That’s where transition programs step in—especially for students with disabilities who need extra time, structure, and support to build independent living and employment skills.

In this episode, host Micki O’Neil talks with Michael McDonald, Director of Transition Programming at Ingham Intermediate School District (ISD), about how programs like Project SEARCH and SAIL (Skills for Adult Independent Living) help young adults ages 18 to 26 move confidently from classroom to community.

Listen to the full episode below or wherever you get your podcasts!

What Are Transition Programs?

Transition programs serve young adults who have completed high school but continue to receive public education services until age 26. These programs blend academic goals with practical life skills—like managing money, using public transportation, cooking, and working in community settings.

At Ingham ISD, transition options are individualized based on each student’s needs. Some students start in center-based programs such as Hartwood or Beekman Schools, while others join SAIL or Project SEARCH directly through their local districts. Each pathway supports independence at a pace that’s right for the learner.

Project SEARCH: A One-Year Bridge to Meaningful Employment

Project SEARCH is an international program designed to help students with disabilities gain competitive, integrated employment. Locally, it operates through a powerful partnership between Ingham ISD, Michigan State University, and Michigan Rehabilitation Services.

Students spend one intensive year completing three internship rotations across the MSU campus—in areas like food service, custodial operations, laundry, or even the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Each rotation offers real-world experience and coaching from both job supervisors and ISD staff.

The goal: for graduates to leave the program job-ready and employed.

Ingham ISD’s Project SEARCH boasts 80–100% job placement—well above the national average employment rate (40–50%) for young adults with disabilities.

Beyond the Classroom: Building Life Skills Through SAIL

The SAIL program focuses on daily living and community engagement. Students learn how to shop for groceries, cook meals, manage laundry, and use public transit. Instruction takes place in authentic environments—apartments, community centers, and local businesses—so students can practice independence in real life.

As McDonald explains, families are often surprised by what their young adults can do once they’re given responsibility:

“Parents tell us, ‘They don’t know how to do dishes at home,’ and we say, ‘Oh yes, they do. They do it every day at school.’”

Transportation, Teamwork, and Next Steps

Transition programming also teaches practical skills like navigating Dean Transportation, CATA, and SpecTran services—resources students can continue using throughout adulthood.

McDonald notes that Ingham ISD’s transition programs have doubled in size over the past four years, reflecting both the growing need and the team’s commitment to student success.

“It’s always kids first,” McDonald says. “Our programs are built around what they need to live, work, and thrive independently.”

Learn More

If you know a young adult who could benefit from transition support or employment readiness training, visit inghamisd.org to connect with Ingham ISD’s Transition Programs team.

E06 Transcripts