Cooke Work Experience

Cooke School Work Experience Program

At Cooke School, we believe every student deserves the chance to discover their strengths and prepare for life after graduation. Our Work Experience Program gives students ages 14–21 the opportunity to practice job skills in real workplaces while building confidence and independence.

Through partnerships with local businesses, students explore different types of jobs—such as retail, hospitality, office work, and community services—so they can find what interests them most. Along the way, they learn important life skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, all while contributing meaningfully to their community.

Teachers and job coaches guide students through each step, helping them set goals, reflect on their progress, and celebrate their successes. Parents often see their children grow in self-advocacy and independence, gaining the confidence to take on new challenges both at school and beyond.

This program is an important part of Cooke’s mission: to prepare students with disabilities for fulfilling adult lives. By combining academics with hands-on job training, we ensure that students leave Cooke ready to continue learning, working, and thriving in the world.