Gulf Coast Hosts Successful Job Extravaganza

On July 19, 2025, 20 students from various schools enjoyed exploring a variety of careers through hands-on activities and workstations at a coastal Job Extravaganza. These special events are designed to create an inclusive business learning environment for students with disabilities, ages 14-21, from local Special Education classrooms. Job Extravaganzas feature local businesses that host job skill stations where students can engage in meaningful tasks such as setting up tables, using cash registers, packaging products, organizing inventory, learning labor skills, or even creating something from scratch.

IDS is grateful to the businesses who gave their time and talents to make this summer Job Extravaganza a success: Triton Systems, 34th Street Wholistic Gardens & Education Center Inc., Dr. Mary Maner from USM Career Services, and Robert King from Rooster Diesel Service. Special thanks to Dr. Maner and Tyler Bourque from USM iTech for donating door prizes, and to wonderful partners at the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services for their continued partnership in making events like this possible!

This summer’s Job Extravaganza has received lots of support and accolades from parents, including Amanda, who stated, “The Saturday event was super impressive and accommodating for my son. Thank you all so much for the work put into the Job Extravaganza! I loved it for my son!!”

For more information about Job Extravaganzas, including how you, your loved one, or your school district can participate, please contact  IDS Executive Coordinators for Transition Services: Beth Robertson (Long Beach Campus) at 228-214-3422 or beth.robertson@usm.edu, or Joseph King (Hattiesburg Campus) at 601-266-4021 or joseph.a.king@usm.edu.