Six Dallas ISD students made history by becoming the first cohort to secure jobs during their second training round in a program designed for young adults with disabilities.
The students—Serenity H., Alicia A., Angel H., Antonio J., Nayalie R., and Jesus R.— completed Project SEARCH, a global initiative helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities find entry-level work.
Their achievement marks a milestone for Dallas ISD’s commitment to career readiness for all students. The breakthrough shows how structured support and real-world experience can transform lives.
“My future goal is to become an EMT,” Serenity H. said. “I never understood the role of an EMT until Project SEARCH gave me the opportunity to increase my skills by working on two ICU floors. Without it, and the people who believed and supported me, none of this would be possible.”
The year-long intern program at Baylor University Medical Center combined classroom instruction with hands-on department rotations. Students explored different hospital roles while building essential workplace skills.
Yolanda Carter, vocational adjustment teacher at Multiple Careers Magnet Center, asked each student one crucial question: “Do you want to work?”
She emphasized commitment to both the job and personal growth.
Carter designed daily routines to foster independence. Students learned to manage every aspect of their workday, from morning preparation to clocking out.
After classroom sessions, students worked independently on their hospital assignments. They gained confidence through real experiences, including difficult days that taught resilience.
The approach worked. Students didn’t just complete internships — they became valued employees earning promotions.
“I’m really proud of myself and the people who helped get me there. I want to let others know to always believe in themselves and have faith that anything is possible,” Alicia said.
Project SEARCH’s success demonstrates how targeted support can open career doors for students with disabilities. The program’s historic achievement sets a new standard for inclusive employment initiatives.