Mastery Schools is excited to share a significant milestone for its Project SEARCH program, as the inaugural cohort graduates with outstanding employment success. Project SEARCH provides transformative support and real-world experiences for students with autism or intellectual disabilities, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed for meaningful careers.

In partnership with Aramark, Community Integrated Services, and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Mastery students from Hardy Williams, Lenfest, Pickett, and Simon Gratz high schools spent their final year in the program participating in off-site internships. The students received daily employability instruction and engaged in individualized internships, acquiring hands-on experience in professional settings. 

Throughout their internships, students developed competitive and transferable job skills, bolstered their independence and self-confidence, and received personalized coaching and instruction. The dedicated Project SEARCH classroom team, led by instructor Maryanne Hayde and skills trainers Changel Bowie, Rachel Gregory, and Taqwan Savage provided systematic training, valuable feedback, and individualized support, contributing greatly to the students’ overall success.

The employment results from this first-year cohort significantly exceeded national benchmarks. While the national Project SEARCH average stands at 72% employment (with 64.8% meeting specific Project SEARCH criteria), Mastery’s inaugural cohort proudly achieved a 100% employment rate, with 88% meeting Project SEARCH criteria. Additionally, Mastery students earned an impressive average hourly wage of $16.86, surpassing the national average of $13.83.

The outcomes of Mastery’s Project SEARCH inaugural year underscore the program’s profound impact on students’ readiness for the workforce and long-term career success. Congratulations to all our students, staff, and valued partner, Aramark, for an exceptional start.