Baldwin County School District Launches Project SEARCH Program for Students with Disabilities

The Baldwin County School District is proud to celebrate the launch of its first-ever Project SEARCH cohort—a milestone that reflects the District’s ongoing commitment to empowering every student, especially those in our Program for Exceptional Children (PEC), with the tools to succeed.

Project SEARCH is a nationwide initiative that gives students with cognitive disabilities the chance to participate in real-world job training through a yearlong internship. In Baldwin County, the program is being hosted in partnership with Atrium Health Navicent, and our very own Baldwin High School.

The Official Signing Ceremony

The program kicked off with a Signing Day event that set the tone for an exciting journey ahead.

“This builds a bridge for our students,” said Michelle O’Gorman, Director of Special Education for Baldwin County School District. “It’s not just about walking across the graduation stage—it’s about what comes next. Project SEARCH helps students gain the job skills and independence they need to find meaningful employment and contribute to their communities.”

Chief Operating Officer at Atrium Health Navicent Baldwin, Thomas Goss, spoke at the signing, commending the students on their spirit and willingness to work. "They have the most important skill that I look for in anybody," he said, "It's not how to cook or how to fix drywall. We can teach you that. The most important skill is to have a positive outlook and make other people smile."

How the Internship Works

Over the course of the year, students in the program will complete three workplace rotations at Atrium Health Navicent. Each morning starts with a classroom session located on-site at the hospital, where students practice soft skills and prepare for the day. From there, they move into hands-on training in departments aligned with their interests—from hospitality and nutrition to environmental services.

O’Gorman credits a strong team effort for making the program possible. “We’ve had incredible support from BCSD School Nutrition Director Susan Nelson and the hospital directors who met with students and families. Everyone involved truly believes in these students. This is a great example of the collaborative effort to change outcomes for our students. Ms. Pam Tindal, the PEC Lead Teacher for Baldwin High School, has been instrumental in building this program. We want to thank our dedicated PEC teachers for preparing our students to be successful in the next chapters of their lives and to be contributing members of our community."

Though the internship is unpaid, it opens doors for post-graduation employment. By the end of the program, students will have gained invaluable experience, confidence, and a clearer sense of purpose.

“It’s about independence,” O’Gorman said. “It’s about helping families know their child can succeed beyond the classroom.”

Baldwin Is a Place for Everyone

"The Baldwin County School District continues to champion inclusive education, where all students are valued, supported, and prepared for life. Project SEARCH is a shining example of that mission in action," stated Superintendent Dr. Noris Price.

To learn more about our Special Education Program or Project SEARCH, visit www.baldwincountyschoolsga.org.