Prince William Project SEARCH is a collaborative initiative between PWCS, DARS, and Didlake Inc. This business‑led, one‑year Transition‑to‑Work Program serves students ages 18–22 and provides full workplace immersion, combining classroom instruction, career exploration, and hands‑on training through internships. The program takes place entirely at the workplace, offering a seamless experience that prepares students for employment success.
Participants complete three unpaid internships, each lasting 10–12 weeks, at Novant UVA Health Systems, Prince William Medical Center. While enrolled in the program, students remain registered at their home high school but attend their internship at the designated Explore business site rather than on the high school campus. Program participation is contingent upon acceptance through an application process.
Schools
Brentsville District High School
Colgan High School
Forest Park High School
Freedom High School
Gainesville High School
Gar-Field High School
Hylton High School
Osbourn Park High School
Patriot High School
Potomac High School
Unity Reed High School
Woodbridge High School
Requirements
Any student with a disability, aged 18-21, who has completed the requirements for an Applied Studies Diploma, has an open case with the Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services, and meets the eligibility requirements for state and local developmental disabilities follow along services may be eligible. Course participation is not determined by an IEP team decision; there is an application and selection process.
Prerequisites
None