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The Learning Zone, Inc. proudly partners with the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) to deliver Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) and host Job Extravaganzas across Mississippi. These key initiatives help equip youth and young adults with the skills, confidence, and employer connections they need to succeed.

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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2024, the unemployment rate for people with a disability was 7.5%, nearly double the rate for people without a disability at 3.8%. The employment-population ratio for people with disabilities stood at just 22.7%, compared to 66.6% for those without disabilities. Youth with disabilities face even greater barriers: the jobless rate was 23.9% for ages 16–19 and 13.3% for ages 20–24. These disparities illustrate the critical need for targeted workforce programs that prepare students with disabilities before they enter adulthood.

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Our fellow Americans with disabilities often experience long-term unemployment and difficulty securing jobs that align with their skills. At the same time, many employers across sectors continue to report unfilled positions due to a lack of skilled applicants, highlighting the persistent skills gap in today’s workforce.

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Economists and policymakers agree that education and training are the keys to bridging this divide. The Learning Zone, Inc. is committed to delivering workforce-focused education that develops practical, job-aligned skills. We recognize that this preparation must start before high school graduation, which is why we launched our after-school program INSIGHT Learning alongside Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes.

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While workforce development opportunities remain critical for the unemployed and those seeking stable, living-wage employment, it is equally vital that students are exposed to career pathways and workforce opportunities early. Through our MDRS partnership, Pre-ETS programs, Job Extravaganzas, and innovative learning models, The Learning Zone, Inc., ensures that youth, especially those with disabilities, have a clear path to success in Mississippi’s workforce.