St. Bernard Parish Public Faculty System has launched the LEAP Join Twin Enrollment Program, a brand new initiative that provides college students with mental and developmental disabilities a structured path from schooling to employment.

In line with a information launch, this system operates in partnership with Nunez Group Faculty.

This system permits college students to attend faculty programs 4 days every week, specializing in work readiness, life abilities, and independence. Members additionally earn industry-recognized credentials and develop skilled abilities for careers in hospitality, medical companies, and culinary fields. Past classroom instruction, college students obtain job web site visits, interview teaching, on-site job assist, and transportation coaching to assist them navigate their communities independently.

In its first semester, all college students are in good educational standing at Nunez Group Faculty. Ten college students have already begun internships with native organizations, together with B&G Grocery, the St. Bernard Authorities Complicated, St. Bernard Sheriff’s Workplace, Espresso Home in Arabi, Milestones Little one Growth, New Orleans Youngsters’s Museum, Balcony Ballroom, and the New Orleans Royal Sonesta. These placements present sensible, hands-on expertise in skilled settings, constructing confidence and office abilities.

Krystal Kennedy, coordinator of particular schooling for St. Bernard Parish faculties, praised the scholars’ progress.

“They’ve jumped into faculty courses and office coaching with a lot confidence,” she mentioned. “You’ll be able to already see the way it’s serving to them develop extra unbiased and see new prospects for themselves.”

Joseph Cipollone, supervisor of center and highschool particular schooling, highlighted the collaborative nature of this system.

“Offering significant alternatives for college students with disabilities exhibits that once we consider in and spend money on each learner, our complete neighborhood grows stronger,” he mentioned. “Via this program, our college students are thriving academically, creating important life and work abilities, and gaining real-world expertise that may serve them for years to come back.”

The initiative underscores the broader advantages of hiring people with disabilities, together with stronger office tradition, improved retention, and constructive buyer experiences. Employers can also qualify for work alternative tax credit, supporting workforce improvement whereas fostering inclusion.

Superintendent Doris Voitier mentioned this system displays the district’s dedication to making ready all college students for fulfillment.

“We’re grateful for the robust partnerships and assist that make alternatives like this doable,” she mentioned. “Our college students are thriving, gaining confidence, and making ready for vibrant futures.”