Written by: Ainsley Hall and published in The Martinsburg Journal on APRIL 25, 2025, link to the article HERE.
INWOOD — Musselman High School held a special celebration for its Work Exploration graduates on Thursday.
This year, Berkeley County high schools are all hosting their own celebration ceremonies to honor the hard-working students and their achievements.
For several years, Berkeley County Schools has partnered with local businesses to give special-needs students the opportunity to work and develop important life skills. As the school year is nearing graduation, BCS put together special ceremonies to recognize the students who participated.
Lisa Wright, special education transition and compliance coordinator for Berkeley County Schools, took the position back in October. She took over the Work Exploration program, working with job coaches to give students more opportunities. In just the few months she’s been in the position, she has seen what a great impact the program has had on students and their families.
“This program creates opportunities and brings the community together,” Wright said. “That’s the driving force behind what we do.”
Wright started the ceremony by thanking the coaches, parents and families, Superintendent Ryan Saxe and the other administration. Because of their dedication to inclusion and support for the students, this program continues to flourish.
Wright also thanked the students who continue to have a positive impact on their community.
“You are the reason we are here,” Wright said. “You stepped out of your comfort zone and got involved in working in your community. We can’t wait to see what you do moving forward.”
Each student was recognized, receiving a certificate for their achievement. Seniors were also given a special gift to celebrate their time in the program.
At the end of the ceremony, a special recognition was given to Josiah Wilson, who was chosen as the Work Exploration Student of the Year. Wilson completed his third year in the program, working at Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Food Lion and more. He’s made such a positive impression, Jersey Mike’s has even shown interest in hiring him as a greeter after graduation.
Wilson’s parents, Marshall and Julie Wilson, attended the event to celebrate their son’s achievement. Julie shared that Josiah is great with people, and she enjoys seeing him grow to be who he is now. She believes it takes both supportive parents and programs like this to give students like Josiah the push they need to succeed.
“We need to recognize that the students have so much potential,” Julie said. “We just need to push them to reach it. They need that guidance. They need to feel like they belong.”
The Work Exploration program creates the right environment to be inclusive so special needs students can develop the skills they need to thrive. Just like it did with Josiah, it opens doors for future jobs and gives them the tools they need.