Project SEARCH
Project SEARCH is an internationally recognized employer -led model that was developed at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) in 1996. The Project SEARCH High School Transition model is for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their last year of high school eligibility. Mayo Clinic Project SEARCH started in September 2015 in Rochester and is a partnership between the Rochester Public Schools, Mayo Clinic, Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Olmsted County Disability Services, and Opportunity Services with supports from the Project SEARCH State Leadership Team.
Eight to ten students in their final year of educational programming at the District will participate in a one-year academic program. Students will experience three 10-week unpaid internships. The hours of the program are 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM. Interns will gain employability and specific work skills, and receive assistance with customized job searches. The outcome of Project SEARCH is competitive, integrated employment for each student intern.
Basic Eligibility Requirements:
18 – 21 years old
Intellectual and Developmental Cognitive Disabilities
Appropriate hygiene, social, and communication skills for the business
Ability to take direction and change behavior
Independently utilize public transportation
Pass background checks, immunization check
Accept diploma at end of year and obtain employment
Internships:
Systematic instruction
Learn competitive, marketable employment skills
5 hours each day
Develop specific work and employability skills
Three internships in a variety of settings
Focus on productivity and quality
Continual feedback & assessment from instructor, skills trainers, and Mayo Clinic staff