The Wayne D. Boshears Center proudly celebrated a special milestone as four students in the CONNECT Program received their Tyler ISD diplomas. Family members, staff, and friends gathered to recognize the students' hard work, growth, and accomplishments during their time in the program.
CONNECT, which stands for Creating Opportunities Now Needed to Establish Connections Tomorrow, is one of Tyler ISD's 18+ transition program designed to prepare students for life beyond high school. The program focuses on developing skills for greater independence, participation in day habilitation programs, volunteer opportunities, and sheltered workshop settings.
Throughout the year, students gained valuable real-world experience through Community-Based Instruction at locations including Meals on Wheels, Super 1 Foods, and the Recycling Center. They also participated in Work-Based Learning experiences at Bruno's Pizza, CiCi's Pizza, and McAlister's Deli, where they practiced workplace skills, responsibility, and teamwork.
In the classroom, students strengthened daily living skills by learning household tasks such as wiping tables, taking out the trash, making beds, and cleaning floors. These experiences help prepare students for greater independence in their homes and communities.
Congratulations to our CONNECT graduates! We are proud of their accomplishments and wish them continued success as they begin the next chapter of their journey.