ST. LOUIS, MO (KMOX) - A collaboration between a Metro East school district, local government and the U.S. Department of Labor will put more students with disabilities in the workplace by the start of the year. A new apprenticeship program will place students at Collinsville High School in training opportunities with the city's parks and recreation department and the Gateway Center.
Alison Underwood, Director of Special Education for the Collinsville School District, says it's essential students with disabilities have support transitioning from high school to work and post secondary education.
"The more opportunities we can give our students, the more authentic, hands-on, real-life experiences our students can have in supported environments, it's just going to contribute to their success after they leave us," she says.
Underwood adds, there's a real need for qualified employees at a time when businesses are struggling to find applicants.
"What better way to help not only our students become proficient in the skills they need to be successful, independent young adults, and get them into jobs that are manageable for them ... but then also for our community who have businesses that aren't able to keep their doors open," she says.
Underwood says most programs that offer job coaching and support for students with disabilities, aren't available until after high school. Under this program from the U.S. Department of Labor, students who successfully complete the registered apprenticeship will receive certification in their chosen area.
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