HUNTSVILLE Windham School District and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) have teamed up with the San Antonio Food Bank (SAFB) to spotlight the achievements of individuals reentering Texas communities through the district’s apprenticeship programs.
During a recent visit to the SAFB, representatives from Windham and TDCJ gathered to discuss the transformative impact of grant-funded initiatives aimed at promoting success. Among the notable success stories is Manuel Davila, who, after participating in an apprenticeship program while incarcerated, is now gainfully employed as a kitchen cook at SAFB. His journey exemplifies Windham’s commitment to connecting reentering individuals with meaningful employment opportunities.
SAFB’s involvement in the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) grant allows participation in the NRAEF’s Hospitality Opportunities for People (Re)Entering Society (HOPES) workforce development program. This initiative has proven essential in equipping individuals with the skills needed to succeed in the hospitality industry. During the visit, Windham representatives, including Charlene Moriarty, Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training Administrator, observed the educational programs offered by SAFB, such as a culinary class led by Chef Gregory Williams. Participants in these programs provided a demonstration for visitors, creating diverse recipes from scratch, reinforcing critical skills necessary for career advancement.
“Windham remains dedicated to cultivating partnerships with employers, agencies and community organizations to achieve our goal of boosting the employment rate in the fields of training for eligible students and graduates to 95% before their reentry,” Moriarty said. “This is a key objective outlined in our 2030 Plan, and success stories like Mr. Davila show that we are on the right path.”
Windham, in collaboration with TDCJ, provides 26 apprenticeship occupations registered with the United States Department of Labor (DOL). These programs offer students relevant on-the-job learning, technical instruction and a curriculum designed to prepare them for successful careers. Students are required to meet the established training hours and skill-related experience for program completion. Upon completion, they receive a nationally recognized Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship from the DOL.
The district partners with SAFB to provide current students with the opportunity to gain apprenticeship hours working in the food bank’s culinary department and warehouse, further enhancing their career prospects. Graduates are also connected with SAFB employment opportunities, ensuring that they can continue to build on the skills acquired during their time in Windham programs. Beyond apprenticeship programs, many Windham alumni who completed academic or life skills courses were also in attendance during the visit to SAFB and are now utilizing those skills to secure meaningful careers and contribute to the Texas workforce.
