Project SEARCH Academy

The 2025-2026 school year marks 11 years for Norman’s Project SEARCH Academy. The program aims to provide integrated and competitive employment opportunities for students with disabilities, provides workplace training through non-paid internships for students between 18 and 22 years old.

Seven students completed the program during the 2023-2024 school year. Each student completed three, 10-week internships in areas such as banquet service, housekeeping, laundry, maintenance, food/beverage outlets and culinary services. Students learned transferable job skills for future employment and also participated in hour-long sessions focused on teamwork, communication, interviewing, resume writing, financial management, and health.

Since the program's inception in 2015, 63 students have completed Project SEARCH Academy.

"Project SEARCH was a game changer for my son. He finished his internship more confident, with new skills, and he is now better prepared for integrated employment in his community. If you’re a parent feeling unsure whether this program is for your child, don’t let that stop you from applying! The team truly meets each intern where they are and helps them grow. I especially appreciated how the staff supported my son while keeping him motivated. Project SEARCH is now a highlight on his resume. I highly recommend this program to other families."

Miranda Hooper

Parents of 2025 Graduate

The program is made possible through a unique partnership between Norman Public Schools, Embassy Suites by Hilton Norman, OU National Center for Disability Education and Training, the Department of Rehabilitation Services, and Dale Rogers Training Center.

The hospitality industry offers a wide variety of occupations within one building and students leave with a wide range of job skills and experience. At the conclusion of the program, students have completed high school and are often successful at securing sustainable employment.

We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Embassy Suites by Hilton. They are a wonderful host business and truly care about the success of this program. Project SEARCH has provided students and families an impactful experience by providing instruction in self-advocacy, integrity, and responsibility all while mastering vocational tasks around the hotel. Our goal is to help our interns achieve their maximum potential."

Sara Newsome

Project SEARCH Instructor

Graduates of Project SEARCH