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Family asks Texas Workforce Commission to clarify funding for student in UNT Elevar program
Summary
A mother and special education teacher told the Texas Workforce Commission that TWC services for her daughter accepted to the Elevar program at the University of North Texas were put on hold in March, leaving the family uncertain about funding as the semester approaches.
Tammy Chavera, a special education teacher and mother of a young adult with an intellectual disability, told the Texas Workforce Commission that services and funding tied to her daughter Julia’s acceptance to the Elevar program at the University of North Texas have been on hold since March.
Chavera told commissioners she and her family are current TWC clients but “are uncertain of Julia's current status as it stands relating to her funding.” She said TWC services were paused at the recommendation of their case manager after Julia’s March 2025 acceptance and that the family has not “made progress for Julia” since then. Chavera said the family is “currently between offices as part of this transition season from the Dallas to Denton TWC office,” and that, at the current pace, they may face program costs before knowing whether TWC will provide support.
The Elevar program, which Chavera described as a four‑year opportunity for students with intellectual disabilities, was presented in her remarks as a pathway to independence and long‑term reduced need for public supports. “This opportunity has already shown Julia what is possible,” Chavera said. She urged the commission to continue funding or create new opportunities so students with intellectual disabilities can access postsecondary programs.
Lehi Trotman, general counsel, handled public‑comment logistics and introduced the speakers; Chavera noted she had also been in contact with TWC case managers about the family’s file.
The comments were delivered during the commission’s public‑comment period and did not include any formal staff response or vote on Julia’s case during the meeting. Chavera and other commenters urged clearer, faster communication from TWC about individual funding decisions so families can make timely plans.
The commission did not announce a specific decision or timeline for resolving the family’s funding question during the session.
