Professional Learning & Events Schedule

Welcome Meijer Swartz Creek!
We are thrilled to expand Project SEARCH Michigan with our new partner host site at Meijer Swartz Creek in partnership with Flushing Community Schools.
Instructor: Deb Isham — deborah.isham@flushingschools.net
Professional Learning & Events Schedule
Connect with educators, business leaders, and advocates transforming the future of employment for young adults with disabilities.
Virtual Professional Learning
Statewide Virtual Sessions
A statewide virtual gathering focused on shared learning, updates, and continuous improvement. These gatherings allow teams to connect and collaborate across sites—without the need for travel. (All sessions are 11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.)
- September 23rd: VocFit with Dennis Cleary
- December 2nd: Life of a VR Counselor and Project SEARCH with Carin Lloyd and Eva Xhelilaj
- February 24th: Google Mapping for Employment with Lori Eshenroder
- April 7th: DB101.org
Open Door Virtual Sessions
Informal, drop-in meetings hosted by Sarah and Michael. Bring your questions, share updates or just connect – no agenda required. Sessions are virtual on a recurring basis. Everyone is welcome to participate! (All sessions are 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.)
Virtual Parent Meetings
Supportive virtual sessions designed to help families understand the Project SEARCH model, internship expectations, employment pathways, and how to best partner throughout the year. These meetings provide space for questions and direct connection with statewide program directors, Sarah Winslow and Michael Zivsak. (All sessions are 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
New Site Development Virtual Team Meetings
Targeted planning sessions for districts launching new Project SEARCH programs. These meetings guide teams through partnership development, timeline planning, and employment-focused design to ensure a strong, successful first year. (All meetings are 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.)
Statewide In-Person Meetings
A full-group professional learning experience bringing together Project SEARCH teams from across Michigan. Participants engage in collaborative problem-solving and hands-on activities that strengthen fidelity, alignment, and employment outcomes. (All Project SEARCH partners are welcome)
Retreats
Recharge. Reconnect. Reignite. Project SEARCH in-person retreats are where passion meets purpose! Join groups of instructors, business liaisons, skills trainers, or VR partners for hands-on learning, bold collaboration, and fresh inspiration to elevate your impact. Let’s build brighter futures—together.
- Instructor Retreat — October 16, 2026
- Skills Trainer Retreat — December 11, 2026
- Business Liaison Retreat — January 14, 2027 (Virtual)
- Vocational Rehabilitation Retreat — October 20, 2026
Corewell Health Trenton & Lincoln Park Public Schools
See how business partnerships and dedicated educators create life-changing workforce pathways for Project SEARCH interns in Wayne County.
Partner & Intern Impact Videos
Explore video spotlights and intern stories from across Michigan