The Work-Based Learning (WBL) Summer Institute welcomed 75 dedicated special education professionals from across Texas to College Station for three days of collaboration, learning, and inspiration. Held July 8–10, the event focused on equipping attendees with tools and strategies to strengthen their WBL projects and better support student success.
Participants explored a variety of impactful topics, including:
- Employability Framework and Checklist – Practical tools to assess and build essential workplace skills.
- Connecting the Next Steps to Independence Assessment to a Job Development Plan – Strategies for aligning student assessments with actionable career planning.
- Planning for Next Year – Forward-thinking session to help teams prepare for the upcoming academic year.
In addition to the rich content, the Institute fostered meaningful connections among attendees. Educators had the opportunity to share ideas, build relationships, and collaborate on solutions to common challenges.
The event also featured engaging guest speakers from the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Harvest Coffee, who shared insights on entrepreneurship, workforce readiness, and community engagement.
Attendees shared overwhelmingly positive feedback about the experience:
“This has been a great experience. I received so much valuable information. Thank you for putting this all together!”
— Michelle L. Hafford, Arlington ISD
“There is so much need in the SPED world for quality training. What a quality product you have. I heard the same from all attendees I spoke with.”
— Roman Mccoy, Amarillo ISD
Planning is already underway for next year’s gathering, which promises even more opportunities to learn, connect, and inspire.
