Tyler ISD, in partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation Services, proudly recognized Bruno’s Pizza and Pasta as the April 2026 B.R.I.D.G.E. Partner of the Month, celebrating the restaurant’s outstanding commitment to inclusive practices and student empowerment.
The B.R.I.D.G.E. Partner of the Month award highlights businesses that go above and beyond in supporting students with diverse abilities by providing meaningful, real-world work experiences. Bruno’s Pizza and Pasta has demonstrated this commitment through its ongoing partnership with students from the CONNECT 18+ program at the Wayne D. Boshears Center.
Each week, students are welcomed into the restaurant where they build essential workplace skills in an inclusive, supportive environment. From rolling silverware using visual supports to folding pizza boxes and maintaining a clean dining space, students gain hands-on experience that fosters independence and confidence while contributing to daily operations.
This partnership reflects the mission behind B.R.I.D.G.E.—Businesses Reaching Individuals Determined to Gain Employment—and showcases the impact of collaboration between Tyler ISD and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation Services. Through internships and supported employment, students are able to transfer classroom learning into real-world settings, often leading to their first paid job opportunities and long-term career readiness.
CONNECT teacher Terry Farley emphasized the significance of the partnership, noting that work-based learning allows students to apply years of instruction in meaningful ways. “This experience gives students the opportunity to grow beyond the classroom,” Farley said. “Even simple tasks like rolling silverware, folding pizza boxes, or cleaning tables help build lifelong skills. These opportunities open doors to employment, community inclusion, and greater self-worth.”
For more than 40 years, Lori Rumbelow’s family has fostered a strong connection between business and community. Through their partnership with Tyler ISD, they have created an environment where students feel valued and included.
“They love it,” Rumbelow shared. “We’ve had some students who have worked here, and they are treated just like every other employee. It’s important for our team to see that everyone has a place in the workforce.”
She encouraged other business owners to consider similar partnerships. “You must give it a chance. These students are remarkable. It makes you feel good to open your business and give them an opportunity.”
Through partnerships like this, Tyler ISD continues to expand opportunities for students to develop “Big Dreams. Real Skills.” while building a more inclusive and supportive community workforce.
Get Involved
Interested in joining Tyler ISD Vocational Services and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation Services in empowering students through work-based learning? Learn how your business can make a difference by visiting the Tyler ISD Vocational Services website. Tyler ISD is deeply grateful to Bruno’s Pizza and Pasta for their dedication and encouragement, helping our students become job-ready in a supportive environment. Their partnership truly is a win-win for Tyler ISD, Texas Workforce VR, and our entire community. Together, we build a stronger, more inclusive workforce where everyone can thrive.