An official website of the State of Georgia.
The .gov means it’s official.
Local, state, and federal government websites often end in .gov. State of Georgia government websites and email systems use “georgia.gov” or “ga.gov” at the end of the address. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you’re on an official state website.
Still not sure?
Call 1-800-GEORGIA to verify that a website is an official website of the State of Georgia.
May 21, 2026
Throughout April, the Pathways to Partnerships (P2P) grant program continued making a meaningful impact in communities across Georgia by empowering students with disabilities through career exploration, independent living skill development, family engagement, and collaborative community partnerships. Through the continued partnership between the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA), local Centers for Independent Living (CILs), school districts, educators, and families, students participated in hands-on learning experiences designed to prepare them for future success both in and beyond the classroom.
Building Workplace Readiness Through Real-World Learning
In Liberty County, students at Lewis Frasier Middle School concluded the semester with an interactive activity that allowed them to take on the role of hiring professionals. Working together as “HR managers,” students reviewed candidate profiles, analyzed strengths and weaknesses, and collaborated to determine who would be the best fit for a job opportunity. The activity encouraged students to apply critical thinking, professionalism, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in a real-world setting while helping them better understand employer expectations and workplace decision-making. Students at Lewis Frasier Middle School also proudly celebrated the successful completion of the Pathway to Dreams curriculum during a special recognition event. Participants were honored with certificates, medals, and Dream Chasers books that symbolized their hard work, growth, and commitment to pursuing their goals. Throughout the program, students explored their interests, future aspirations, and career possibilities while developing early vocational awareness and essential soft skills that will support them as they transition into high school and beyond.
In Polk County, students at Cedartown and Rockmart Middle Schools wrapped up their Pathway to Dreams experiences with energetic and engaging final lessons tailored to workplace readiness and career development. Cedartown students participated in a lesson titled “Launch Your Career: Resume,” where they learned the purpose and structure of resumes while creating their own resumes for specific job opportunities. Meanwhile, Rockmart students took part in “Boss Moves: Who Would You Hire?” where they evaluated job candidates and practiced decision-making skills from the perspective of an employer. Both activities challenged students to think critically, collaborate with peers, and apply workplace skills in practical ways. Students from Rockmart and Cedartown Middle Schools were later recognized for completing ten weeks of instruction focused on work integration and independent living skills. Through the partnership among GVRA, the Northwest Georgia Center for Independent Living, and Polk School District, students in sixth through eighth grade gained valuable exposure to career exploration, self-advocacy, and workplace readiness skills designed to support long-term independence and success.
In Houston County, students at Feagin Mill Middle School celebrated the completion of the Pathway to Dreams curriculum while also participating in activities centered on future planning and community support systems. Students explored post-secondary pathways including four-year colleges, technical colleges, employment opportunities, and programs offered through Roosevelt Warm Springs. They also learned about resources and services available through GVRA and Disability Connections, including supports for employment and independent living. To reinforce the importance of support systems, students participated in a hands-on bridge-building activity using marshmallows and toothpicks. The lesson connected the purpose of a bridge—providing support and helping people reach their destination—to the real-life supports available through community agencies and partnerships. The activity helped students better understand how organizations like GVRA and Disability Connections can help them achieve their future goals.
In Elbert County, students at Elbert County Middle School participated in Multiplechoices CIL Connect Day at the Athens-Clarke County Library. The “Ticket to Success” themed event served as a culminating experience for Pathway to Dreams participants and provided students with opportunities to apply workplace readiness and Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) skills through interactive games and activities. Students practiced communication, teamwork, self-advocacy, and problem-solving while earning tickets that could be exchanged for prizes and treats. The event also featured speakers who introduced students to transition services, peer support, advocacy, and independent living resources available through Multiplechoices Center for Independent Living and GVRA.
Family and community engagement remained a central focus of the P2P program throughout the month. Richards Middle School hosted a successful P2P Open House that brought together students, families, and community partners to learn more about transition supports and services available for students with disabilities. Representatives from Access 2 Independence, GVRA, and local vocational rehabilitation services shared information on education planning, employment preparation, and independent living resources. Families had the opportunity to ask questions, build connections, and gain a greater understanding of the supports available as students prepare for life after middle and high school.
One of the highlights of the month was the continued implementation of the Pathway to Dreams curriculum in schools across the state. Students participated in engaging lessons focused on workplace readiness, communication, self-advocacy, teamwork, and career exploration while building confidence and practical skills they can apply throughout their educational and professional journeys.
Expanding Outreach Across Georgia
P2P team members also continued expanding outreach and awareness efforts through community events and professional learning opportunities. In Chatham County, the team partnered with Living Independence for Everyone (LIFE) to participate in the First District Transition Alliance Expo, where they shared information with families, educators, and community agencies about transition services, Roosevelt Warm Springs opportunities, and family resources available through the P2P program.
Additionally, the P2P team traveled to Columbus, Georgia, to deliver professional learning at the Pastoral Institute alongside Access 2 Independence. The session focused on increasing awareness of resources and supports available for individuals with disabilities and their families, including vocational rehabilitation services, independent living supports, and family engagement resources designed to promote future success and independence.
Educator engagement also continued to play a vital role in strengthening student outcomes. At Lewis Frasier Middle School, educators participated in a professional learning session facilitated by the P2P team, GVRA, and LIFE CIL. During the session, educators reflected on their hopes for students while learning more about transition supports and resources available to students and families. Staff members received resource materials and tools to help strengthen communication with families and support students as they transition into high school.
The month also included opportunities to celebrate students and strengthen community partnerships through outreach events such as the Polk County Special Olympics Spring Games. P2P team members, along with staff from the Northwest Georgia Center for Independent Living and GVRA Cave Spring Center, attended the event to cheer on student athletes, connect with families and school staff, and share resources that support individuals with disabilities both inside and outside the classroom.
Program Numbers at a Glance
Looking Ahead
As April ended, the continued success of the Pathways to Partnerships program reflected the power of collaboration and community investment. Through engaging instruction, family outreach, educator training, and strong partnerships, students across Georgia are gaining the confidence, skills, and support systems needed to pursue meaningful futures and achieve greater independence.
Together, GVRA, local Centers for Independent Living, school districts, educators, families, and community partners remain committed to creating opportunities that empower students to dream big, build skills, and successfully transition into the next phase of their educational and career journeys.
(funded by U.S. Department of Education, Grant Number H4121E230027)