Education

For adult learners in Klein ISD’s Special Education 18+ program, the path from education to employment just got more empowering — thanks to the Bridge Center, a dynamic hub built on collaboration, innovation, and community support.

Located in Klein ISD at 22603 Northcrest Drive, Klein, TX 77389, the Bridge Center offers more than just a classroom — it’s a launchpad for young adults with special needs transitioning into independent life. With a foundation rooted in the district’s three pillars for 18+ services — education, employment, and daily living skills — the center provides hands-on experiences that prepare students for real-world challenges and job success.

“The Bridge Center was a very collaborative effort,” said Alyx Schultz, Klein ISD’s Director of Transition and Strategic Support. “It started many years ago and evolved with input from many people. Thanks to our executive director’s support and our team’s focus on what students need most, the center was able to take off.”

Currently, 106 adult learners are enrolled at the Bridge Center, each receiving tailored support to gain independence through authentic work-based experiences. Whether it’s stocking inventory, making smoothies, or learning to interact with customers, every activity is designed to reinforce practical skills and self-reliance.

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One of the shining examples of the program is the Bridge Center Bistro, a student-run café and smoothie shop made possible by a $24,990 grant from the Klein ISD Education Foundation and PBK Architects, alongside generous community support from Katz Coffee and AAUW. The bistro doesn’t just teach food service—it mirrors an industry job site. Students run concessions, manage a boutique, and even take their “Blends and Trends” smoothie pop-up across the district.

“We wanted to create authentic opportunities for our students to generalize their skills across environments and people,” Schultz added. “They’re doing everything, from taking inventory and stocking supplies to making and selling smoothies using the same industry-based equipment found in real workplaces.”

The success of the Bridge Center is also built on powerful local partnerships. Organizations like the Texas Workforce Commission, Beacons of Excellence Project, and even district departments such as Plant Operations and Food Services, have collaborated to provide internship and training opportunities. Paid and unpaid internships allow students to practice on-the-job skills in familiar and supportive environments like Klein ISD campuses and neighborhood businesses.

“Watching the Bridge Center grow into a vibrant hub of learning and purpose has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” said Dr. Kirsten Allman, Executive Director of Special Education for Klein ISD. “Our 18+ learners are building life and job skills while gaining confidence, independence, and a true sense of belonging.”

(Source: Klein ISD)

The center is also integrating technology in powerful ways. Through video modeling — a research-based approach where students learn by watching others — the district has launched the Klein Community Classroom video training series. These videos, created in partnership with the Klein ISD Communications Team, feature real employees modeling workplace tasks. QR codes linked to the videos are placed directly on equipment, giving students access to training on the spot.

“Video modeling is a research-based strategy that helps students learn by watching and practicing independently,” said Schultz. “We’re creating QR codes that link directly to training videos on each piece of equipment so students can access help instantly while they work.”

The proof of success is already visible. Several students have secured part-time employment this school year at local businesses such as HTeaO, Little Caesars, and golf courses, with others currently interviewing with H-E-B and Kroger. More internship partnerships are on the horizon.

Take Justin Mansfield, a Bridge Center adult learner who now works at Little Caesars and volunteers at the Klein Oak High School concession stands. “The Bridge Center has taught me teamwork and how to work with others,” Justin shared. “I have learned how to talk to customers and acquired new skills like making coffee, taking inventory, and conducting interviews. These skills helped me get my job.”

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With new initiatives in development — including a mock laundry service that teaches both home and vocational tasks — the team is focused on continual growth.

“We just want to keep growing,” said Bridge Center Site Manager Katy Lawrence. “Every new experience gives our students another chance to build confidence, independence, and purpose.”

Community members will get a chance to see the Bridge Center in action during the Annual Holiday Market on December 6 at the Klein Multipurpose Center. There, adult learners will showcase their skills by managing concessions, sales booths, and event operations — a perfect opportunity to support and connect with these driven young adults.

“This program wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Klein ISD Bond, the Klein ISD Education Foundation, Dr. Jenny McGown, and so many dedicated staff and community partners,” Schultz said. “Thanks to them, our adult learners are finding purpose and success, right here in Klein ISD.”

For Klein residents searching online for Klein ISD adult special education programs, job training for students with disabilities in Texas, or local transition programs for special education students, the Bridge Center is setting the bar — and opening doors for brighter futures in the Klein community.