Tyler ISD is proud to celebrate a milestone achievement for the Project SEARCH program at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital. The program was recently honored with the 100% Employment Award, a national recognition given only to sites where every intern secures competitive employment after completing this one-year job skills training program. Tyler ISD's Project SEARCH team was one of seven in the state to be honored with 100% hire rate at this year's conference; Texas hosts a total of 31 program sites across the state.
This award is especially meaningful as Project SEARCH at CHRISTUS marks more than a decade of transforming lives through education, training, and opportunity.
“Recognition in special education doesn’t always come easily,” said DJ Warren, Tyler ISD Project SEARCH Instructor, who has been part of the program for eight of its 11 years. “This award isn’t just about me or my team—it represents so much more. It’s for every teacher and paraprofessional who works tirelessly, often without the spotlight. It’s for every student who has been underestimated yet proves daily that they are capable of incredible things. And it’s for every parent who worries about their child’s future—because there is hope, and it’s brighter than you might imagine.”
Abby Dominy, Tyler ISD Special Education Transition Coordinator added, “Our students have worked incredibly hard to earn this recognition. To see each one of them step into meaningful employment is proof that this program changes lives—not just for our students, but for their families and our entire community. Over the past 10 years, Project SEARCH has taught us that when we invest in partnerships, believe in potential, and remove barriers, our interns don't just get jobs - they change communities. The next decade begins with the same mission: empowering every young adult to discover their strength and step boldly into the future.”
Over the past 11 years, Project SEARCH has equipped young adults with the skills, confidence, and workplace readiness to thrive. Achieving a 100% hire rate means more than numbers: it means futures secured, opportunities opened, and the recognition that every individual has unique value to offer.
As Tyler ISD celebrates this success, the 100% Employment Award affirms both the mission of Project SEARCH—to ensure every young adult has the chance to shine, and the mission of Tyler ISD—Successful Student Outcomes.