Through a partnership between the Albertville school system and a nonprofit organization, students gain real-world experience in a supportive environment.
ALBERTVILLE, Ala. — Living with a disability presents many challenges, and one of the most significant hurdles is securing meaningful employment. However, Albertville City Schools is working to change that by offering students with intellectual disabilities an opportunity to develop valuable job skills through the Exceptional Aggies Café—a program that combines hands-on experience with the support they need to thrive after high school.
The café, which opened its doors two years ago, serves as a training hub where students gain practical experience in food preparation, customer service, and other essential skills needed for life in the workforce. The school system sponsors the initiative, providing transportation, teaching staff, and a unique environment where students can apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world situations.
“This is my third year at the café, and it’s the …