Tyler ISD, Partners Resource Network, and Texas Workforce Solutions proudly hosted the first-ever “Roads to Opportunities” transition event at Tyler Junior College West Campus. The event brought together more than 200 students, parents, support staff, and speakers from multiple East Texas school districts to support transition planning—helping students explore goals for education, employment, and independent living.
The keynote session, led by Rachel Parker and Stephen Behee from Breckenridge Village, encouraged students to build strong self-advocacy skills and make informed decisions about their futures.
“Rachel and Stephen delivered a powerful and relatable message about speaking up for yourself and how making informed decisions creates the foundation for a self-directed future,” said Tyler ISD Transition Coordinator Abby Dominy.
Students and parents participated in a variety of breakout sessions, including Texas Reality Check, Dress for Success, Introduction to Vocational Rehabilitation and Transition Services, Tyler Police Department Sidekicks, Self-Advocacy - Standing Up for You, and Pack Your Bags - Autism Goes to College.
One teacher shared enthusiasm for the “Dress for Success” session, where students learned about professional attire for interviews and the workplace, then got to select and keep some of the professional clothing for future interviews. During the Tyler Police Department’s Sidekicks presentation, officers explained the process for obtaining identifiers on Texas IDs and driver’s licenses, addressing communication barriers and providing valuable information for students and families.
Local exhibitors were on hand, including college admissions offices, day programs, healthcare providers, and employment specialists, allowing attendees from Tyler ISD, Chapel Hill ISD, Arp ISD, Winona ISD, Bullard ISD, Lindale ISD, Longview ISD, and Troup ISD to connect with vital community resources.
The event took place during National Disability Employment Awareness Month, which aims to raise awareness about the employment needs and contributions of individuals with disabilities.
For more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.