Championing Career-Connected Learning for Neurodiverse Learners in Birmingham

When learners of all abilities have access to career-connected learning programs tailored to their specific needs, there is immense potential for traditionally underserved student populations to develop agency and embark on the first steps in their career journeys. The success of this targeted approach is evident at the Spring Valley School in Birmingham, Alabama.

An inaugural Catalyze Birmingham grantee, Spring Valley is on a mission to serve neurodiverse K-12 students with learning differences such as dyslexia, dyscalculia and ADHD, preparing them for life beyond the classroom.

Employer partnerships empowering neurodiverse learners.

Neurodiverse individuals face vast unemployment rates, underscoring the need for inclusive pathways into the workforce. Because of their focused model, Spring Valley School is able to build strong local relationships and equip employers with the tools to support neurodiverse talent effectively. Today, the school supports 130 students from more than 46 zip codes across Birmingham, many of whom struggle to find the specialized resources they need in traditional school settings.

“We’re a K-12 school serving students with what is often referred to as disabilities, but they just learn in a different way,” said Kristen Jackson, Spring Valley’s Director of Communications and Events.

To deepen the school’s local partnerships and expand resources for the school’s learner community, Spring Valley recently launched a new career and internship expo called Birmingham Employs Neurodiversity, through support from Catalyze Birmingham. The two-day event brought together students, local employers and advocates to increase awareness of local neurodiverse talent. The expo allowed students to explore different career pathways, apply for internships and connect with advisors for personalized guidance.

“[The expo] helped employers recognize and learn more about the strengths neurodiverse individuals can offer, ensuring our students have visibility and opportunities to engage in Birmingham’s workforce,” Jackson said. “We collaborate with Catalyze’s community of practitioners and partner with other grantees, including United Ability, and groups such as Equip and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.” These partnerships provide learners with various opportunities — from site visits and mock interview days to workplace skills development and research on self-regulation. 

Carlisha Harris, Catalyze Birmingham Specialist at Prosper, believes collaboration is vital in a city like Birmingham. “We all know each other here, but we don’t always know what others are doing,” she said. “By working together, we truly amplify our strengths and make progress that benefits both students and employers.”

This focus on employer partnerships has not only helped learners build confidence, but it has also shown the local business community how simple accommodations can unlock the potential of neurodiverse talent.

Addressing barriers and building awareness.

Despite the strengths neurodiverse learners bring to the workforce, Jackson recognizes that stigma and misconceptions can remain a significant barrier.

“The latest statistic we found, according to the Harvard Business Review, was that 80% of neurodiverse individuals are underemployed or unemployed,” she said. “Neurodiverse individuals excel in areas like empathy, pattern recognition, and problem-solving — essential skills to any workplace.”

Through its events and panel discussions, Spring Valley aims to shift this narrative by raising awareness and educating employers. “Greater awareness can make a difference, especially as we highlight skills that cannot be replicated or replaced by AI,” Jackson said.

Supporting local impact and growth.

Spring Valley plans to continue creating more career-connected experiences and to establish long-term resources — including a comprehensive database of internship opportunities for neurodiverse students.

“We’ve seen firsthand how career-connected learning builds confidence and bridges the gap between education and meaningful work,” Jackson said. “The sooner we connect our students to their next step, the better prepared they’ll be for the future.”

Through strong community partnerships and funding support from Catalyze Birmingham, Spring Valley is opening doors for neurodiverse students to thrive, equipping them with skills and confidence for lasting career success.

Catalyze Birmingham will announce winners of the second round of the Catalyze Birmingham Challenge in early 2025. Stay tuned for more!