This article was published on Patch by Chris Mosby on March 26, 2021.

STRONGSVILLE, OH — The Derby, a new spirit shop at Strongsville High School, officially opened this week.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Wednesday to unveil the retail store. The space was created with input from the Strongsville High special education, business and career tech departments. Students with disabilities can work in the shop to develop workplace readiness schools while in the safety of the school community.

“The Derby provides an environment for students to gain employment skills and model an inclusive setting for Strongsville High School. We are looking forward to bringing our students, staff, and the entire school community together for this common goal of inclusiveness. Together, we are continuing to strive to create a shared environment that is accepting of all,” said Cheryl Bizub, Strongsville High transition coordinator and special education department chair.

There are plans in motion to extend the reach of the store and offer merchandise to the community, the district said.

Strongsville High will also now offer two new courses: Exploring Retail and Entrepreneurial Skills and Independent Living and Career Skills. Students will learn alongside their peers in co-taught classrooms during these courses, the district said.