Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationDo You Have a Federal Student Loan or Plan to Apply for One? Learn About the New Changes
Changes to federal student loans in the United States, expected to affect millions of borrowers, went into effect on July 1. These changes, part of President Donald Trump's 'big, beautiful bill,' mark the end of certain repayment plans and new limits on graduate student loans. With the termination of President Joe Biden's SAVE plan, these changes are likely to result in increased payment amounts for millions of borrowers. 'What is concerning is the affordability of monthly payments. I believe many will experience a significant increase in their payments, forcing them to stretch their budgets or simply not be able to make them,' said Michele Zampini, associate vice president of The Institute for College Access & Success, a nonprofit advocacy group working to make higher education more affordable. Approximately 9 million Americans have been delinquent on their federal student loans since June, according to the Department of Education. Hundreds of thousands more are overdue on payments and at risk of defaulting this year. Earlier this month, Education Department officials indicated that borrowers enrolled in automatic payment will be eligible for a 1% reduction in the interest rate starting July 1. However, those already using this system receive a 0.25% discount, meaning the new reduction only represents a 0.75% decrease. For all borrowers, the rate reduction will be temporary and will last until June 2028. If you received a student loan, here are some key points to know: The SAVE plan is ending. The SAVE plan (an acronym for Saving on a Valuable Education) was a repayment option with some of the most lenient terms ever offered by the government. Shortly after its launch, it was challenged in court, leaving millions of student loan borrowers in limbo. Earlier this year, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals struck down the SAVE plan, which has now ended. There are about 7.5 million borrowers in the SAVE plan, and servicers have already begun sending them official notices, said Lindsay Vail Clark, a senior borrower advocate at Savi, a student debt assistance platform. Borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan will be notified that they have 90 days to enroll in another income-driven repayment plan. Vail Clark recommends that borrowers start checking their options as soon as possible, as processing delays are likely. If they do not enroll in another plan before the 90-day deadline, the Department of Education will automatically enroll them in one of the standard options, she added. However, there is no specific deadline for all borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan to find another plan, as notices will be sent continuously, Zampini noted. Changes to graduate loan limits. Trump's 'big, beautiful bill' changed the amounts that graduate students can borrow for various programs, but his administration recently updated that plan, according to a judge's order. Under the new regulation, programs classified as professional degrees face federal student loan limits of $200,000, while other graduate programs have a limit of $100,000. Previously, graduate students could obtain federal loans that covered the full cost of their degree. For now, the updated government plan restores eligibility for graduate students in nursing, physical therapy, and other fields to obtain higher amounts of federal student loans. The initial rule had kept them at lower limits. Changes to Parent PLUS loans. Parent PLUS loans have had fewer repayment options, but these are now being further reduced, Zampini noted. The new limits on Parent PLUS loans restrict them to $20,000 per student and $65,000 per family. Additionally, Parent PLUS borrowers who apply for new loans starting July 1 will not have access to any income-driven repayment plan, only to a new standard graduated repayment plan. 'From now on, they will only have the standard repayment option, and there will be no exception or safety net to adjust it based on income, if they have low income or experience income fluctuations or any other type of hardship,' Zampini warned. Parent PLUS borrowers who consolidated their loans into a direct consolidation loan before July 1 can pay them through the income-contingent repayment plan until June 30, 2028. After that date, borrowers will be transitioned to the income-driven repayment plan. Enrollment in income-driven repayment plans. Current borrowers can apply for the following income-driven repayment plans: income-based repayment plan, pay-as-you-earn plan, and income-contingent repayment plan. The payment amount under income-driven repayment plans is a percentage of the borrower's discretionary income, and the percentage varies by plan. However, students who take out loans starting in July will only be able to enroll in one income-driven repayment plan: the payment assistance plan. Borrowers can also use the graduated standard plan, a repayment plan with a fixed amount that ensures loans are paid off within 10 to 25 years. You can find out which repayment plan might suit you best by logging into the Department of Education's loan simulator. If you want public service loan forgiveness. There are no changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, despite a plan from the Trump administration announced last year to change eligibility requirements for participating nonprofit organizations. The policy sought to disqualify nonprofit workers if their work was deemed to have a 'substantial illegal purpose.' The Trump administration asserted that it was necessary to prevent taxpayer money from going to lawbreakers, while critics argue that it turns the program into a tool for political retaliation. Two federal judges recently overturned the new rules, one day before they were set to take effect. If your student loans are in default. Federal student loan collections remain suspended. The Trump administration previously announced this year that it is postponing plans to garnish wages of student loan borrowers who default on their payments. Federal student loan debtors can have their wages garnished and their federal tax refunds withheld if they default on their loans. Borrowers are considered in default when they are at least 270 days late on payments. If your student loans are in default, you can contact your loan holder to request a loan rehabilitation program. Through this program, borrowers enroll in a reduced payment plan, and after making five successful payments, wage garnishment ends. Borrowers can find more information about loan rehabilitation here. If you want to consolidate your loan. The online application for loan consolidation is available at studentaid.gov/loan-consolidation. If you have multiple federal student loans, you can combine them into a single loan with a fixed interest rate and one monthly payment. The consolidation process typically takes about 60 days to complete. You can only consolidate your loans once. This story was translated from English by an AP editor with the help of a generative artificial intelligence tool. A Telemundo Digital editor reviewed the translation.
EducationIDEA Public Schools teacher loses job due to DACA renewal delay
A teacher from the Rio Grande Valley lost her job at IDEA Public Schools after her DACA status expired while awaiting renewal. The termination letter was issued on June 30, 2026, due to lapsed work authorization. The teacher, who prefers to remain anonymous, submitted her renewal application in January but has yet to receive a response after seven months. IDEA Public Schools stated they adhere to federal law requiring valid employment authorization. They acknowledged the impact of immigration delays on individuals and families. The teacher, originally from Rio Bravo, Tamaulipas, expressed her fears about leaving home without valid status.
EducationIDEA Public Schools teacher loses job due to delay in DACA renewal
A teacher from the Rio Grande Valley lost her job at IDEA Public Schools after her DACA status expired before her renewal was processed. The termination letter was issued on June 30, 2026, citing lapsed work authorization. The teacher, who prefers to remain anonymous, submitted her renewal application in January, but after seven months, she is still waiting. IDEA Public Schools stated they adhere to federal law regarding employment authorization and acknowledged the impact of immigration delays. The teacher, originally from Rio Bravo, Tamaulipas, expressed concern about her immigration status and the fear of leaving her home.
EducationFree Hygiene & Personal Care Resources Now Available for Students at Every STC Campus
South Texas College (STC) has launched the Jaguar Self-Care Den at all campuses in Hidalgo and Starr counties, providing free hygiene products to students facing financial difficulties. This initiative, an extension of the STC Student Food Pantry, aims to meet essential needs that can hinder academic success. Since its inception in summer 2024, the program has offered items like shampoo, toothpaste, and deodorant. Coordinators report a positive response from students, emphasizing the importance of these resources. Eligible students can access personal care items once per semester, with additional help available for emergencies. For more information, contact STC Student Affairs at 956-872-3535.
EducationTexas Southmost College to Launch Medical Aesthetics Certificate Program
Texas Southmost College is set to introduce a Medical Aesthetics Injector Certificate program in August, aimed at licensed healthcare professionals. The program includes a 16-hour in-person course covering neurotoxins, dermal fillers, and advanced injection techniques. Participants will learn about facial anatomy, patient assessment, and safe injection practices, with hands-on training using live models. Lead instructor Cynthia Diaz, who has over a decade of experience in medical aesthetics, emphasizes the importance of proper training to ensure patient safety. An information session for interested students will be held on July 30 at the college's ITEC Center Art Gallery.
EducationSTC Summer Camp Paves the Way for Future Robotics Engineers
South Texas College's Center for Advanced Training and Apprenticeships (CATA) has launched a free Lego SPIKE Prime summer camp for students entering grades six to twelve. The camp, funded by a Texas Workforce Commission grant, allows participants like 12-year-old Emma Garza from Edinburg to explore robotics and engineering. Students engage in hands-on activities using Lego kits to build models and learn coding, motors, and sensors. Camp instructor Gary Lee Nunez emphasizes making robotics accessible and encouraging creativity. CATA Director Leonel Garcia highlights the camp's role in introducing students to careers in engineering and technology.
EducationSan Benito CISD awarded $1. 85 million grant to expand after-school programs
San Benito CISD has received a $1.85 million grant to enhance after-school programs at nine campuses over the next three years. This funding, provided through the Cycle 13 ACE After School Grant, ensures that all after-school activities remain free for families. Superintendent Fred Perez emphasized the district's commitment to keeping students engaged after school, noting that a campus with approximately 600 students could see around 150 participating in the program. The district aims to maintain high participation rates in these after-school initiatives.
EducationFormer Donna ISD employee takes office as Texas State Teachers Association president
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A former Donna Independent School District employee took office as the new president of the Texas State Teachers Association on Wednesday. According to TSTA, Linda Estrada was born in Weslaco and grew up in Donna, where she went on to have a 33-year career with Donna ISD. Over the course of her career, Estrada held positions as
EducationTexas A&M McAllen Taps Former Austin Mayor Will Wynn to Lead Higher Education Center
Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen has appointed Will Wynn, a Texas A&M alumnus and former Austin mayor, as its new executive director, starting July 13, 2026. He takes over from Rick Margo, who has moved to Texas A&M Health's Rio Grande Valley Health Education and Outreach. Wynn, a McAllen resident, brings extensive experience in public leadership and community development. He aims to enhance campus operations and partnerships while fostering a student-centered environment. Wynn expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the university's mission and support local students and industries.
EducationTexas Mutual Invests $5,000 in Teach For America RGV to Drive Local Workforce Development
Teach For America (TFA) Rio Grande Valley has received a $5,000 investment from Texas Mutual to enhance the recruitment and retention of educators in the region. This funding aims to alleviate financial challenges for new corps members and strengthen the local teaching workforce. TFA has been active for over 35 years, partnering with schools to improve educational opportunities. Currently, more than 50 corps members and 240 alumni are making a difference in the community. Texas Mutual expressed pride in supporting TFA’s mission, which focuses on transforming education and empowering future leaders in the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationWeslaco Brothers Redefine Leadership and Education Through STC Dual Credit Program
Jaden Daniel Gutierrez and his younger brother, Jeshua Davian Gutierrez, made history in Weslaco by becoming the first siblings to hold the title of Mr. Weslaco consecutively. This achievement highlights their family's commitment to leadership and community service, as well as the benefits of South Texas College's (STC) Dual Credit Programs. Jaden, a Weslaco High School graduate, earned an Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice through STC and is now pursuing a bachelor's degree at UTRGV. Jeshua, inspired by his brother, is also enrolled in STC's program to gain college credits while in high school, emphasizing the importance of education and mutual support in their journey.
EducationBrownsville ISD holds full-scale active attack training exercise ahead of school year
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Dozens of law enforcement officers, many wearing full riot gear, gathered at Hanna Early College High School Tuesday morning as the Brownsville Independent School District partnered with multiple agencies for a full-scale active attack training exercise. The exercise was designed to test officers' response capabilities during an emergency attack while also evaluating
EducationSTC Biology Professor Shapes Students, Builds Community
Diane Teter, Professor Emeritus at South Texas College, has significantly influenced students and the college's Biology Department during her nearly 25-year tenure. Since starting her teaching career in 1996, Teter has been dedicated to fostering strong student communities. She recalls STC's early days with only three biology faculty members and a growing student body. Teter actively sought resources for laboratory improvements and emphasized hands-on learning. Beyond teaching, she served in various leadership roles within the Faculty Senate, advocating for faculty initiatives. Even after retiring in 2019, Teter remains connected to STC, believing in the importance of lifelong education.
EducationCentral Middle School Students Honored as Leadership Essay Contest Winners
Central Middle School in Weslaco recently celebrated its inaugural American Legion Texas Leadership Essay Contest winners during an End-of-the-Year Awards Assembly. Congressman Vicente Gonzalez and Representative Armando Martinez presented Congressional Certificates of Recognition to the 7th and 8th grade recipients. The winners were chosen by a committee of Language Arts teachers and American Legion alumni, including Bobby Pulido, who reviewed the essays. The program aims to inspire students to engage in leadership roles within their schools and communities. Notable winners include Javier Villarreal and Elijah Luke Garza McGinnis, among others. The initiative promotes future leadership opportunities for students.
Education$4.7 Million in State Grants Awarded to Texas Workforce Training Program
Governor Greg Abbott has announced the allocation of over $4.7 million in grants to 15 public community colleges and technical schools across Texas. These funds, managed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, are aimed at enhancing educational programs that prepare students for high-demand careers in sectors like healthcare, technology, and construction. The grants are part of the Texas Invests in Meaningful Employment (TIME) and TRUE Pathways initiatives, which focus on aligning educational credentials with workforce needs. Notable recipients include Alamo Community College District and South Texas College, among others.
EducationSTC Ballet Folklórico Director Celebrates 20 Years at Alma Mater
Victor Gomez, Assistant Professor of History at South Texas College (STC), celebrates 20 years of inspiring students both academically and through dance. An STC alumnus, he founded Ballet Folklórico South Texas College, which has become a prominent cultural program in the region. Gomez emphasizes the importance of community involvement and has expanded educational opportunities through various initiatives. His dedication has led to numerous accolades, including the Faculty of the Year Award. Despite nearing retirement eligibility, Gomez plans to continue teaching, focusing on developing future leaders from the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationHidalgo County Sheriff's Office kicks off inaugural teen academy
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The next generation of law enforcement officers were welcomed on Monday at the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office's inaugural teen academy. Approximately 25 students across the Rio Grande Valley were selected from a pool of 50 applicants to get a look inside the world of law enforcement through hands-on training with deputies
EducationFuture Scientists Dive Into Biology at STC Summer Camp
Middle school students are exploring the wonders of biology at South Texas College's (STC) annual Biology Explorers Camp. The weeklong program offers hands-on experiences, including growing plants, examining cells, culturing bacteria, and dissecting organisms. STC faculty member Xiomara Galvan emphasizes the camp's goal of sparking interest in science among students who may find biology dull. Participants create ecosystems in jars and learn about life cycles and cleanliness. Returning camper Cecily Galle expressed her excitement, stating that the camp has deepened her love for biology. The camp aims to inspire future scientists through engaging activities and real-world exploration.
EducationA Recipe for Changing Lives: Sony Rego’s Passion for Hospitality Has Become a Legacy of Education
Sony Rego, a prominent figure in the Rio Grande Valley, has dedicated her life to transforming the hospitality industry through education. Over the years, she has significantly contributed to South Texas College by establishing scholarships and supporting initiatives for students pursuing careers in culinary arts and hospitality. Her flagship event, the Santa Fe Steakhouse Wine Classic, serves as a fundraising platform to help students overcome financial challenges. Rego’s philanthropic efforts highlight the importance of investing in the community's future, creating opportunities for aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals. Her legacy is defined not just by her business success, but by the lives she has positively impacted.