Jane Justin School: Opening doors of opportunity

Jane Justin school graduate Eduardo holding camera and taking photos in his new career at Cook Children's

For students at the Jane Justin School, learning goes beyond the classroom. As part of Cook Children's, this state-of-the-art, individualized, private school helps students with developmental, intellectual and learning disabilities gain confidence and independence. In the Upper School, students take part in career readiness training to prepare for the working world. And thanks to a unique internship program, that training now includes real-world experience, right here at Cook Children's.

Partners in learning

Cook Children's officially joined the internship program in 2022 alongside Tarrant Area Food Bank, Fort Worth Botanic Gardens and other community partners to provide hands-on learning. Our program's first intern, Eduardo, didn't just gain job skills, he found a career. After completing his internship with the communications team as a photographer, he was hired as an employee. In 2024, four more interns are working in various roles, learning valuable skills while contributing in meaningful ways.

Framing the future

This program is more than just a great opportunity, it's a natural extension of our mission to support the children who are already part of the Cook Children's family. By welcoming Jane Justin School interns, we're not just helping students build skills, we're learning from them too. Their perspectives bring fresh ideas and help us see things in new ways.

Read Eduardo's story

Related content