PARMA, Ohio — When the pandemic shut-down job site training for students in Parma, one class created a business of its own.

It’s called P.A.C.T.S. Custom Gifts.

“Our class can make you anything,” said intervention specialist Katie Vento.

P.A.C.T.S. stands for Parma Area Center for Transition Services.

The Parma Senior High School program is in its fourth year and Vento has been part of it from the start. 

“I feel very lucky that I work here," she said. "It’s the best job.”

She’s been teaching in the Parma City School District for 15 years.

“Beautiful district that offers a whole spectrum for kids with special needs," said Vento.

Her desire to work in special education began at a young age.

“My entire life,” said Vento. “I had a wonderful teacher and her son had Down’s syndrome and I feel like that’s where it started for me.”

Traditionally, the career and technical employment program includes job site training, but COVID-19 shut that down.

“Had to kind of reinvent ourselves,” said Vento.

Drilling, staining, and selling personalized gifts to district staff became the solution.

“We couldn’t let them miss out on their education, so it was absolutely critical that we had to find an alternative and get them to keep acclimating and keep acquiring skills,” said Vento.

Students enjoy a variety of different hands-on tasks.

“Cut the wood," student Danielle Short said of her favorite part.

"They love it,” said Vento.

It’s a hands-on way to learn real-life on-the-job skills.

“Paint nice and neatly. I have to focus,” student Carmine Owca said.

Every part of every craft is specially made.

“When we say P.A.C.T.S. Custom Gifts, you’re seeing every students work," said Vento.

P.A.C.T.S. aims to set each student up to live the most independent and successful life possible — at home, out in the community, and in the workplace.

“The kids love it,” said Vento.

Seventeen students with various disabilities between the ages of 18 to 22 are part of P.A.C.T.S. this year.

Vento said the custom gifts will be sold at local craft shows in the fall.

Those in P.A.C.T.S. like to show everyone is capable and that there is plenty of fun to be had along the way.

“What’s your name?" Mr. B, a teacher, asked student Dominic Mauretic.

"Trouble," Mauretic said laughing.

"Trouble,” Mr. B said. “His name is trouble.”