College Readiness Seminar for Students with Disabilities on October 14th

Texas Vocational Rehabilitation Services • September 14, 2021

Thu, October 14, 2021 | 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM 

Save the date for a virtual event! Texas Workforce Solutions Vocational Rehabilitation Services will host a College Readiness Seminar for Students with Disabilities on October 14, 2021, from 1:30 - 3 PM. Representatives from area universities will be speaking to parents and students who plan to enroll in college. Register to attend here: https://bit.ly/3kMrybt.


LIST OF SPEAKERS


Mary Kate “MK” Kahrhoff, J.D., M.S.Ed.


Assistant Director of Student Accessibility and Resources


The University of Texas at Tyler | 1:35-1:50 PM


—Learn the difference between high school and college accommodations


Sylvia Frank, Director of Student Support and Disability Services Quinten Bates, Academic Coach & Student Support Services


Wiley College | 1:50 - 2 PM


—Know your rights 101: Self Advocacy In The Classroom


Dr. Rae Lundy, AVP - Student Health, Counseling & Wellness


Wiley College | 2-2:10 PM


—Keeping Students Engaged


Kyle J. Mutz, M.A. - Director, Disability Resource Center


Lamar University | 2:10-2:20 PM


—Excelling With A Disability In College


Tonja Blase, Director - Office of Disability Services


Texarkana College | 2:20-2:30 PM


—Navigating College With A Disability


Natalie Buuck, Disability Services Coordinator


Stephen F. Austin State University | 2:30-2:40 PM


—Disability disclosure and SFA support services


Celia Ranniger, Financial Aid Advisor


Angelina College | 2:40-2:50


—FAFSA and financial aid


Jeremy Duncan and Shannon Carithers, TWS - VR Services


—General Overview of VR and closing comments

Register
May 1, 2026
This is a subtitle for your new post
April 22, 2026
The total number of nonfarm jobs in Texas registered at 14,354,600 after decreasing by 8,500 positions in February. Over the year, the state added 73,800 jobs for an annual nonfarm growth rate of 0.5 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.4 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,941,800 after decreasing by 13,400 over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 121,200 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas remained stable at 4.3 percent. “Texas’ over-the-year growth trajectory remains strong because we have cultivated a pro-business climate that helps employers grow and generate new opportunities for working Texans,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “The Texas Workforce Commission is investing strategically in programs that foster long-term economic prosperity across all regions of our state.” The Professional and Business Services industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in February after adding 6,300 jobs. In addition, Manufacturing added 2,500 jobs over the month while Information added 200. Construction posted the highest annual growth rate of any major industry for the 19th month in a row at 2.7 percent in February. “The addition of more than 121,000 people to the labor force over the year reinforces the need to make sure all Texans can participate in—and benefit from—our evolving economy,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “The Texas workforce system is addressing the needs of today while anticipating those of tomorrow through initiatives like Texas Intern Network, which connects young Texans with employers.” The Midland metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.3 percent in February. It was followed by the San Angelo MSA at 3.5 percent and the Abilene MSA at 3.6 percent. “The foundations of the Texas economy are strong, and our employers and workers are resilient and adaptable,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “It’s encouraging to see robust growth surging across key industries like Construction and Professional and Business Services, signaling that there is ample cause for optimism.” Employment estimates released by TWC are produced in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. *All estimates are subject to revision. To access this and more employment data, visit TexasLMI.com . The Texas Labor Market Information Data for March is scheduled to be released on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (CT). 
April 22, 2026
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is now accepting applications for its Workforce Diploma Pilot Program. This funding opportunity is intended to support programs that help adult learners in Texas obtain a high-school diploma, earn industry-recognized credentials, and develop employability skills. The Workforce Diploma Pilot Program is designed to create new career pathways for adult learners. The program connects adults who have not completed high school with education providers that offer a combination of academic instruction, career training, and supportive coaching. Eligible applicants must be authorized to grant a high school diploma in Texas or partner with an accredited entity that is authorized. Applicants are also required to have at least two years of experience in dropout reengagement services for adult students. This includes experience in academic assessments, proactive coaching, employability skills training, and preparation for industry-recognized credentials. Interested organizations must submit their completed responses by May 5, 2026. The complete request for qualifications (RFQ), including all requirements and submission documents, can be found online at: https://www.txsmartbuy.gov/esbd/3202600137 . Organizations must use this portal to submit their response. All questions regarding this RFQ should be emailed to vendorproposals@twc.texas.gov .
Show More