Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationIDEA Public Schools Opens 2027–2028 Applications
IDEA Public Schools in the Rio Grande Valley is now accepting applications for the 2027-28 school year. Currently, the district serves nearly 34,000 students across 51 schools. A new full-day Pre-K 4 program will be introduced at select schools, aimed at enhancing learning for four-year-olds through play-based activities and social-emotional development. Eligible students must be four years old by September 1, 2027. Applications are due by February 19, 2027, with a lottery to determine placements occurring the next day. Families can find more information and apply through the IDEA website.
EducationHow Development Training Flight Prepares New Airmen
Recruits of the 926th Wing Development and Training Flight at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, participate in a program designed to ease their transition from civilian life to military service. This initiative allows new reservists to engage with their future operational units before basic training, helping them learn military customs, procedures, and rank structure. Trainees also gain firsthand experience by embedding with operational squadrons. The program emphasizes physical readiness through monthly fitness tests and group workouts, fostering teamwork and camaraderie. This early exposure helps recruits like Abril Fonseca prepare for their future roles in the Air Force Reserve.
EducationGrulla High School Alumnus Makes History with West Point Graduation
Hiram Flores, a 2021 Grulla High School graduate, made history by graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point on May 23, 2026. At 23, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Law and Legal Studies and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army, set to serve as an Aviation Officer. Flores is the first Grulla High School alumnus to graduate from a U.S. military academy. He credited his JROTC instructor and family for their support, emphasizing the importance of discipline and teamwork. His journey serves as an inspiration for other students in the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationLa Joya ISD Reports Phone System Interruption
La Joya ISD is currently experiencing a district-wide disruption in its phone system. The school district's Technology Department is collaborating with support teams to restore service as quickly as possible. In the meantime, La Joya ISD is advising parents, students, and community members to use email or other approved communication methods. For assistance, individuals can reach out to publicinfo@lajoyaisd.net. The district appreciates the community's patience and will provide an update once the phone service is back online.
EducationUTRGV students reflect on 9 / 11 attacks
Students at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley are sharing their reflections on the significance of September 11. Many recall learning about the attacks in school through videos and discussions, as well as stories from family members who experienced the events. UTRGV student Alana Flores expressed the emotional impact of hearing her grandfather's experiences, who volunteered with the American Red Cross to assist in the aftermath of the attacks. These personal connections help students understand the gravity of that day and the national tragedies that unfolded.
EducationValley Central Weekend Report: News in education, what data centers could really cost the Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — On this week’s edition of ValleyCentral Weekend Report, Anchor Alejandra Yanez breaks down all the news of the week. Starting with the biggest stories of the week, in case you missed them. A Cameron County man is being held on a $100k bond after being accused of murdering his wife. Deputies were called to a home in Bayview on
EducationPSJA ISD Dual Enrollment Surges 24%, Expanding College Access for More Than 3,500 Students
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) has reported a 24% increase in dual credit enrollment for the Fall 2026 semester, with 3,505 students participating in college-level courses through South Texas College. This marks an addition of 681 students compared to the previous year. The growth is attributed to PSJA's Cradle to College™ initiative, which aims to provide students with early access to college credits. PSJA ISD has also achieved an A rating in the 2026 Texas Accountability Ratings, with 27 of its 44 campuses receiving an A. The district will host a Cradle to College Conference on November 4-5, 2026, to share its successful practices.
EducationPSJA ISD’s 19th Annual Countdown to Zero Dropout Recovery Walk, Sept. 12th & 19th
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD is set to hold its 19th Annual Countdown to Zero Dropout Recovery Walk on September 12 and 19, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the PSJA Early College High School cafeteria. This initiative aims to reconnect with students who have not returned to school by mobilizing staff, families, and community volunteers for door-to-door outreach. Volunteers will provide support, identify challenges, and connect families with resources to help students complete their high school education. The district encourages participation from all community members to assist in this important effort.
EducationRGV LEAD and RGVBA Launch Major Architecture & Construction Initiative
RGV LEAD and the Rio Grande Valley Builders Association (RGVBA) have launched a new initiative aimed at creating a workforce pipeline in architecture and construction for the 2026-2027 academic year. This partnership will connect high school juniors and seniors from RGV LEAD member districts with the local construction industry. Students will benefit from various opportunities, including site tours, mentorship, internships, and apprenticeships. RGV LEAD will coordinate educational efforts while RGVBA will facilitate industry engagement. Leaders from both organizations emphasize the importance of aligning education with workforce needs to prepare students for high-demand careers in the region.
EducationDonna ISD awarded $3.12 million for outdoor classrooms
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Donna Independent School District was awarded $3.12 million by the Texas A&M Forest Service Schoolyard program to build new outdoor classrooms, increase tree canopy and add nature-based learning spaces to eight district schools. According to a release, the program is a partnership between Texas Trees Foundation, Donna ISD, Region One
EducationSTC Brings Back No-Cost CPR Training This Fall
South Texas College (STC) is reintroducing free CPR training this fall due to high demand from summer sessions. Funded by a $100,000 grant from Texas Mutual Insurance Company, the American Heart Association Basic Life Support courses are available to STC students and community members. Classes will be held on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from September to October at the Continuing Education Training Center in McAllen. Each session accommodates 10 participants, with dates starting from September 17-19 and continuing through October. Successful participants will earn an AHA Basic Life Support certification, essential for many health-related programs.
EducationTSTC and The PossAble Dream Open New Path for Adult Students in Harlingen
Texas State Technical College (TSTC) in Harlingen has partnered with The PossAble Dream Adult High School to offer a tuition-free high school diploma for adults aged 18 to 50. A memorandum of understanding was signed on September 9, allowing the adult school to operate on TSTC's campus. This initiative aims to provide a direct pathway to technical education and workforce careers, addressing barriers that prevent adults from completing high school. The program allows students to experience college life while pursuing their educational goals, ultimately leading to better job opportunities. Enrollment information is available on The PossAble Dream's website.
EducationTSC Calls on Student Artists and Writers to Submit Work for Scorpion’s Quill Issue 3
Texas Southmost College is calling on students, faculty, and staff to submit original works for the third issue of Scorpion’s Quill, its annual literary and arts journal. The deadline for submissions is October 31, 2026. The journal accepts poetry, short stories, memoirs, and visual art, including drawings and photography. TSC English Instructor Amanda Utzman, who oversees the journal, emphasized its popularity and its role in encouraging students to express themselves creatively. Contributors will be celebrated in a showcase in spring 2027, and being published can enhance students' resumes as a valuable credential.
EducationValente Rodriguez Brings Hollywood Experience to South Texas ISD World Scholars
Valente Rodriguez, a Rio Grande Valley native and professional actor, visited South Texas ISD World Scholars Theatre Arts students in Edinburg to share his extensive experience in the entertainment industry. During his visit, he engaged with students through discussions about his career and led acting exercises, providing invaluable guidance. Rodriguez, known for his role as Ernesto 'Ernie' Cardenas on the ABC sitcom George Lopez, emphasized the importance of local theatrical training. His journey from the Valley to Hollywood serves as inspiration for aspiring performers, highlighting the potential for success in the arts. South Texas ISD expressed gratitude for his visit.
Education'You have no choice': Millions of SAVE Plan borrowers must choose new student loan plan by Sept. 30
EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — More than seven million federal student loan borrowers could soon see changes to how they repay their loans following a recent court ruling affecting the SAVE Plan. Borrowers who enrolled in or applied for the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan and currently have their loans in forbearance are now required
EducationFormer STC Dual Credit Student Joins Computer Science Faculty
Ramiro Santos, a former dual credit student from PSJA Southwest Early College High School, has joined the Computer Information Technologies faculty at South Texas College (STC). At just 23 years old, Santos reflects on his educational journey, which began with a passion for Computer Science ignited during high school. After earning his associate degree from STC, he completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. Santos aims to inspire current students by sharing his experiences and helping them engage with the evolving tech industry, including opportunities in research and project development.
EducationMcAllen ISD Teacher Apprenticeship Program Kicks Off Year 2
The McAllen ISD Apprenticeship Program (MAP) is entering its second year, with a kickoff event held on September 4, 2026, at the Professional Learning Center. The program currently has 84 candidates, helping district staff transition from support roles to certified teaching positions. Participants include both new apprentices and teaching residents collaborating with mentors from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and the Region One Education Service Center. To qualify, applicants must possess an Associate's Degree and commit to completing a bachelor's degree and obtaining a teaching certificate. The program offers training and financial support through grants.
Education$20,000 Boost Expands STC Threads Career Closet
The Threads Career Closet at South Texas College (STC) has provided professional attire to hundreds of students and alumni since 2019. A recent donation from Dr. Rodney Rodriguez, STC's Vice President of Institutional Advancement, valued at over $20,000, will enhance this service across all six campuses. This initiative aims to assist students who may struggle financially to access suitable clothing for interviews and career events. The closet is open to currently enrolled students and alumni, and donations of professional attire are welcomed year-round. The closet operates Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Education'Not all services cost the same': Texas changes special education funding
EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Texas is changing how it funds special education services this school year, with the state adding about $250 million in additional funding statewide. The new model shifts away from primarily basing funding on where a student receives services and instead considers the intensity of services each student needs. For local school districts,