Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationFree NWS Inspector Training for Texas Livestock Rolled Out
Governor Greg Abbott has introduced a free online training course aimed at increasing the number of certified New World Screwworm (NWS) inspectors in Texas. This initiative, developed in collaboration with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, USDA-APHIS, and other agencies, is essential for maintaining the safety and movement of livestock. The course covers NWS biology, inspection protocols, and certification processes. Eligible participants include licensed veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and various state inspectors. By completing the course and passing the exam, individuals can become certified inspectors authorized to issue movement certificates for livestock. The program is part of Texas's broader strategy to combat NWS effectively.
EducationHarlingen South student heading to 2026 National Speech and Debate Tournament
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —Theatre is about telling stories, but one local student's story may be his most compelling role yet. The lights come up. The curtain opens. And for Javier, that's where the magic begins. Whether it's musical theatre, one-act play, or speech and debate, the Harlingen South junior continues to leave audiences speechless. "I've
Education'A huge milestone': Roma ISD mariachi director speaks on performance at Carnegie Hall
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Roma Independent School District's mariachi program had the opportunity to shine and represent the Rio Grande Valley on Tuesday at Carnegie Hall in New York City. "It's a tremendous opportunity for a musician, especially as a student musician, to step foot on one of the world's most prestigious stages," said director
EducationTexas National Bank Executive Sees Bank On INT as Investment in Future Workforce
Rafael Medrano, executive vice president of Texas National Bank, highlighted the Bank On INT internship program as a vital investment in the future workforce of the Rio Grande Valley during its second-year launch on June 5, 2026. The event, held at Edinburg City Council Chambers, included representatives from the City of Edinburg, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, UTRGV, and local banks. Medrano emphasized the program's benefits for students and employers, providing hands-on experience in the financial sector. He also suggested expanding banking education at UTRGV, while Edinburg Mayor Omar Ochoa encouraged students to pursue careers in the region.
EducationUTRGV scientist explains how to spot the screwworm fly
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins visited Zavala County, Texas, the site of the first New World screwworm case in decades. This county, located 100 miles southwest of San Antonio, is central to efforts against the pest. Dr. Sarah Maestas from UTRGV explained how to identify the screwworm fly, which resembles a blow fly with a metallic green or blue body and distinctive stripes on its thorax. She emphasized that this pest feeds on live flesh, unlike another screwworm that consumes decaying matter. Residents are urged to report any infestations on wildlife or livestock to the appropriate authorities.
EducationSTC CDL Program Rolls Out OSHA 10, Hazmat Training This Summer
Starting July 1, South Texas College's Commercial Truck License Institute will launch an 18-hour training program that includes OSHA 10 instruction and hazardous materials endorsement preparation. The program aims to enhance workplace safety knowledge for commercial drivers in the transportation, logistics, and industrial sectors. Classes will be held on Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout July and August, featuring 10 hours of OSHA coursework and eight hours of Hazmat training. This initiative is open to current CDL holders and those looking to expand their professional credentials, emphasizing the importance of safety in handling hazardous materials.
EducationHead Start and Vanguard Academy Launch New Partnership with June 17 Family Event
The Hidalgo County Head Start Program is excited to announce a new chapter for the 2026-2027 school year, including the renaming of its Camarena campus to Palmview Head Start Academy. This change reflects a commitment to excellence and innovation in early childhood education. In partnership with Vanguard Academy Charter School, the program aims to enhance educational opportunities for local families. A Meet & Greet event will be held on June 17 at 5:30 p.m. at Vanguard Monet Elementary School, where students will receive a free uniform shirt. This collaboration seeks to inspire a love of learning and prepare children for future success.
EducationTexas Teachers Recognized with $750 Million in Incentive Allotment Awards
Governor Greg Abbott announced the allocation of over $750 million in Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) funds to more than 65,000 teachers across 800 school districts in Texas. This initiative, managed by the Texas Education Agency, has distributed over $1.8 billion since its launch. The TIA aims to retain effective educators and improve student outcomes, with research indicating a 20% increase in retention rates for top teachers. In the 2024-25 school year, 91% of high-performing teachers were retained in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, contributing to improved accountability ratings. Participation in TIA is expected to exceed 1,000 districts by Fall 2026.
EducationHarlingen museum welcomes hundreds of PSJA students
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- The Harlingen Arts and Heritage Museum kicked off its two-day education experience on Wednesday for students with the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District. The two-day experience will welcome more than 300 elementary students from the PSJA Gifted and Talented Program to learn about Harlingen and its history through activities and exhibits.
EducationWeslaco cosmetology school offering free summer program for teens with Down syndrome
The Riva Institute of Cosmetology in Weslaco is introducing a free summer program named "Hands & Faces of Light" for teens and young adults with Down syndrome. The initiative aims to teach beauty skills like skincare, haircare, and nail care under the guidance of professional instructors. Director Elva Alanis emphasized the program's goal of community support and student success. Scheduled for two one-week sessions in July, enrollment will be limited to five participants to ensure personalized attention. Participants will receive a certificate upon completion. For more details, contact the Riva Institute at 956-952-7482.
EducationTexas high schoolers show gains across all subjects on STAAR tests
Texas high school students have shown improvements across all subjects on the STAAR tests, according to results released on Wednesday. The exams, which include Algebra I, Biology, English I, English II, and U.S. History, indicate readiness for college or careers. Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath attributed these gains to focused teaching and the recent ban on cell phone use in classrooms. Approximately 54% of students passed Algebra I, up from 47% last year, while Biology saw a rise to 71%. English I and II also improved slightly. The changes in testing protocols aim to address concerns about overtesting in Texas schools.
EducationUsing Art History to Change Student Views
Melissa Terry, an assistant professor at South Texas College, emphasizes the importance of teaching Art History beyond just facts and artifacts. Her goal is to foster empathy and broaden students' perspectives on different cultures and experiences. Recently awarded the NISOD Excellence Award, Terry has dedicated nearly a decade to teaching at STC. She incorporates interactive methods in her classes, such as group discussions and hands-on activities, to engage students. Notable initiatives include the 'She Roars' Women’s History Month series and educational trips to art museums, which have profoundly impacted her students' understanding of art and culture.
EducationFree Breakfasts and Lunches for Kids Offered This Summer in the Valley
Families in the Texas Valley can access free breakfasts and lunches for children and teenagers this summer thanks to a program initiated by Healthy Kids and Teens of South Texas, Inc. The initiative aims to ensure that minors continue to have access to nutritious food during the school break. In Starr County, free meals are offered at two locations: Rio Grande City at Basilio Villarreal Municipal Park, 1473 Stephan Saenz St., with lunch served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and La Grulla at the Community Center, 381 Pvt. Leopoldo Longoria St., with lunch from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. The program started on June 1 and will continue until August 7. In Hidalgo County, the Valle Alto Youth Facility provides meals for children and teenagers aged 3 to 18, with breakfast from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and lunch from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Hidalgo Youth Center also offers free meals with breakfast from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and lunch from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The program is available to all minors aged 3 to 18 at no cost. Organizers emphasize that the goal is to support families during the summer months and ensure that children continue to receive healthy meals while not in school. For more information, interested individuals can call (956) 578-4937, (956) 607-1549, or (956) 929-0504. Healthy Kids and Teens of South Texas reported that the program is open to all eligible families and is part of their efforts to promote healthy eating among minors in the region.
EducationValley students get hands-on experience at TSC summer camp
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Middle and high school students from across the Rio Grande Valley gathered in Brownsville on Tuesday for a Regional P-Tech Expansion Summer Camp. Over 100 students from about 13 Valley school districts had an opportunity to explore TSC's programs. Through hands-on activities, students gained a better understanding of the career path
EducationJulian Alvarez Calls for Greater Financial Literacy and Banking Career Awareness
Julian Alvarez, Executive Vice President of Lone Star National Bank, emphasized the importance of financial literacy and awareness of banking careers during the launch of the second year of the Bank On INT paid internship program in Edinburg. This initiative, a collaboration between the City of Edinburg, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, UTRGV, and regional banks, aims to expose students to banking careers. Alvarez noted that high schools lack programs focused on financial services, limiting students' career exposure. The program provides valuable internships for students, helping them connect academic knowledge with workforce needs and develop professional skills before graduation.
EducationVAMOS Hosts its 30th Annual Scholarship Banquet June 10th
The Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) will host its 30th Annual Scholarship Banquet on June 10, 2026, at the Edinburg Conference Center. This year, VAMOS will award a record $1 million in four-year renewable scholarships to 62 students from the Rio Grande Valley, recognizing their academic achievements and community commitment. The keynote speaker will be Elizabeth Diaz Gonzalez, Principal of UTRGV – McAllen ISD Collegiate Academy and a VAMOS alumna. The event will also highlight a $25,000 contribution from Chick-fil-A Rio Grande Valley, showcasing their support for educational initiatives in the region.
EducationGreater State Bank Executive Encourages Students to Build Skills Through Bank On INT
Luis Gamez, Vice President of Branch Administration and Human Resources at Greater State Bank, encouraged students to embrace the Bank On INT paid internship program during its launch on June 5, 2026, in Edinburg. The program, a collaboration among the City of Edinburg, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, UTRGV, and local banks, aims to enhance workforce development in the Rio Grande Valley. Gamez emphasized the importance of gaining practical experience and building professional networks. Edinburg Mayor Omar Ochoa highlighted the program's role in providing students with real-world education and competitive salaries, fostering future talent in the region.
EducationLos Fresnos CISD appoints interim superintendent
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Monday to appoint an interim superintendent. Jimmy McDonough will begin serving as Los Fresnos CISD interim superintendent on July 2 as the Board of Trustees continues its search for a new superintendent. McDonough, who currently serves as the
EducationMcAllen ISD Partners with TDA for Free Summer Meals
McAllen ISD has partnered with the Texas Department of Agriculture to provide free nutritious meals for children aged 1-18 during the summer of 2026. There will be 59 feeding locations across McAllen, including 38 schools, Boys & Girls Club sites, and worship centers, along with 21 Meals on Wheels sites where school buses deliver meals to designated neighborhoods. All meals must be eaten on-site, and children must be present to receive them. For more information, contact McAllen ISD Child Nutrition at 956-632-3226 or visit their website.