Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationFree Summer Meals Available at South Texas ISD Campuses June 1-30
From June 1-30, South Texas Independent School District (STISD) will provide free breakfast and lunch for children 18 and younger, including students with disabilities up to 21 years old. Meals will be served in-person from Monday to Thursday at four STISD campuses. Breakfast hours are from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., and lunch is from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Participation does not require enrollment in STISD. Meal locations include Edinburg, Mercedes, Olmito, and San Benito. For more information, contact Oliver Galvan, Child Nutrition Director, at 956.514.4230 or via email.
EducationSTC, UTSA Partner on Online Leadership Master’s Program
South Texas College (STC) and the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to create an online Master of Higher Education Administration program. This initiative aims to support faculty and staff in advancing their careers while continuing to work. The program, which will start in fall 2026, is designed for working professionals and will offer evening classes in an eight-week format. Tuition discounts will be available, and information sessions are scheduled throughout the summer for interested applicants. The partnership emphasizes the commitment to developing future leaders in higher education.
EducationFirst Cohort Graduates from Pioneering South Texas Nursing Apprenticeship Program
DHR Health and South Texas College celebrated the graduation of the first cohort from the Registered Nurse Apprenticeship Program, recognized as the first federally sanctioned nursing apprenticeship in the U.S. The ceremony honored ten graduates who completed paid clinical training while pursuing associate degrees in nursing. Leaders from DHR Health, South Texas College, and the Texas Workforce Commission highlighted the program's role in addressing the nursing shortage in the Rio Grande Valley. Marissa S. Castañeda praised the graduates' dedication, while Dr. Carlos Cardenas emphasized the importance of nurses in patient care and expanding healthcare access in the region.
EducationHarlingen South Ezzie Cortez signs to Hamline University
Tony Cantu, a standout point guard from Harlingen South, has signed to play basketball at Missouri Valley College. He received multiple accolades, including the 32-5A MVP award and spots on the 32-5A All Defensive Team, RGVBCA First Team, and TABC All-Region Team. Cantu was also recognized as a four-time All-Academic selection. His contributions helped the Hawks secure two district titles and one bi-district championship, along with advancing to the area round and regional semifinals. Cantu expressed his excitement about this opportunity, highlighting the supportive community at Missouri Valley and the camaraderie with fellow Valley athletes.
EducationUTRGV moving some classes to Brownsville campus to reduce commute times
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) is relocating some classes to its Brownsville campus to alleviate long commutes for students in the lower Rio Grande Valley. Many students currently travel to the Edinburg campus for specific courses, often waking up before 5 a.m. to attend. A recent report highlighted that engineering courses were a primary reason for these trips. Starting this fall, third-year engineering classes will be available in Brownsville, with fourth-year courses anticipated by 2027. UTRGV has also added 3,000 course seats to the Brownsville campus, aiming to enhance student life and resources.
EducationLoudoun County Schools Under Federal Scrutiny After Reports of Secret Bathroom Recordings
The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights has launched an investigation into Loudoun County Public Schools in Virginia due to allegations that a high school student recorded numerous underage students in bathroom stalls over three years. The inquiry will assess whether the school district violated Title IX by not adequately addressing sexual harassment claims. This follows previous findings that Loudoun's policies regarding gender identity in intimate spaces led to violations. The district is currently classified as 'high-risk' for federal funding, with over $50 million at stake, as it faces scrutiny for its handling of student privacy and safety.
EducationUTRGV Harlingen Collegiate High School heading to nationals in children literature competition
UTRGV Harlingen Collegiate High School is making strides in its inaugural year with 11 students qualifying for a national children's literature competition. Senior Margarita Caballero, who won first place in a state contest, will represent the school in Oregon next month. Her book, "No More Space," tells the story of a small space rock named Sammy seeking his place in the universe. Caballero, who has a passion for space and children's literature, has worked at the Harlingen Public Library for two years. Principal Imelda Trevino expressed excitement about the program's potential to inspire future students and enhance educational opportunities.
EducationHarlingen Isaiah Gaytan signs to Palo Alto College
Isaiah Gaytan, a standout baseball player from Harlingen, has officially signed his letter of intent to play at Palo Alto College. The shortstop and pitcher for the Harlingen Cardinals was recognized as the Newcomer of the Year in his freshman season and received a first team All-District selection last year as a utility player. He played a crucial role in leading his team to a bi-district championship in 2025. Gaytan expressed his dedication to the sport, reflecting on the countless hours he invested and the positive influence of his coaches as he looks forward to his future in college baseball.
EducationDespite Iran war, local graduates embrace military service
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — High school graduations are kicking off in the Valley this week. While many students are heading off to college or the workforce, some have chosen to join the armed forces. Every student has a different reason for enlisting. “I believe it came from being a big sister, I already had a
EducationMcAllen Kicks Off 10-Week Paid Summer Internship Program
The City of McAllen has launched its 10-week paid Summer Internship Program, aimed at providing college students and recent graduates with professional experience in municipal departments. Interns will work alongside seasoned professionals, gaining skills and insights into public service and local government. This initiative is part of McAllen's commitment to education and workforce development, allowing students to explore various career paths, including human resources and forensic science. This year marks the program's third iteration, with 61 students having participated since its inception. Interested students can apply by submitting their resumes to the city.
EducationIDEA Public Schools Class of 2026 Celebrates College Signing Day in the RGV, May 20-22
IDEA Public Schools in the Rio Grande Valley will host College Signing Day 2026 from May 20 to May 22, celebrating over 1,800 graduating seniors as they announce their college choices. The three-day event will feature five ceremonies across various IDEA schools, with morning sessions starting at 9:30 a.m. and afternoon sessions at 2:00 p.m. Notably, this year marks the first senior classes for IDEA Robindale and IDEA Los Encinos. Students will reveal their college acceptances, which include prestigious institutions like Yale, Stanford, and the University of Texas at Austin. The events will take place at the McAllen Convention Center.
EducationPSJA ISD Graduates First Aspiring Assistant Principals Cohort
PSJA ISD has successfully completed its first Aspiring Assistant Principals Academy, aimed at developing future campus leaders. The program, which began in November 2025, concluded on May 14, 2026, with 30 educators presenting their solutions to real campus challenges. Participants included teachers, counselors, and curriculum coordinators, all of whom held Master’s degrees in Educational Leadership and had at least three years of experience. The initiative emphasizes PSJA ISD's commitment to nurturing internal leadership and enhancing educational excellence. Graduates are now eligible for the district's Assistant Principal Candidate Pool, reinforcing the district's focus on leadership development.
EducationMonte Alto ISD awarded over $530K as part of three-year state grant
Monte Alto ISD has received a significant boost in funding from the Texas Education Agency, totaling over $530,000 as part of a three-year grant aimed at enhancing reading and math education. The first year will see $533,000 allocated to implement the Bluebonnet Learning Portal across the district. Additionally, the grant will support teacher training initiatives. Superintendent Rashad Rana emphasized the importance of equipping students for future success by ensuring high-quality instructional materials and effective leadership in teaching.
EducationSister Norma Pimentel Urges Graduates to Live With Integrity at Sacred Heart University Commencement
Sister Norma Pimentel, President and CEO of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, delivered a heartfelt commencement speech on May 9 at Sacred Heart University in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Addressing the Class of 2026, she emphasized the importance of living with integrity, compassion, and courage. Pimentel, who received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree, encouraged graduates to respect one another and uphold their values. She expressed gratitude for being part of the celebration and urged the graduates to be a light for others, using their gifts to serve the community. Pimentel was one of four keynote speakers at the event.
EducationWater Leak Disrupts Service at Schools in Rio Grande City
The Rio Grande City Consolidated Independent School District (RGCGISD) reported a water leak that has disrupted service at several schools, including Early College High School, Ringgold Middle School, and AC2E. Water service was suspended, and officials anticipate it will be restored by Tuesday, May 18. In the meantime, the district has arranged transportation to nearby campuses so that students can access restrooms and other essential needs related to water service during the repairs.
EducationLos Fresnos mom and her two children graduate college together
Graduation season is in full swing at Texas Southmost College, where over 1,100 students received their diplomas. Among them were Alexa Sanchez Martinez and her mother, Hilda Martinez, along with her brother, Brandon Guzman, all graduating on the same day. Alexa, who earned an Associate of Arts in General Studies while still in high school, expressed pride in her family’s achievements. Hilda completed her Associate degree in Social Work while working full-time, and Brandon received a certificate in Automotive Technology. The family overcame challenges together, inspiring one another throughout their educational journeys.
EducationSTC, Donna ISD celebrate renovated automotive training facility at Donna High School
Donna ISD and South Texas College (STC) celebrated the opening of a renovated automotive training facility at Donna High School East. This facility aims to enhance workforce education and provide dual credit opportunities for students. Superintendent Angela Dominguez noted the upgraded space is equipped with modern tools to prepare students for careers in the automotive industry. STC President Ricardo J. Solis highlighted the increasing need for technical training in the region. The event also featured a donation of a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado from General Motors for instructional purposes, reinforcing the commitment to career and technical education.
EducationHidalgo County Head Start, Donna ISD to hold ribbon cutting for new academy
Hidalgo County Head Start and Donna Independent School District will celebrate the opening of the new Donna Early Head Start Academy with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This facility will provide early learning services for infants as young as 6 weeks to children up to 3 years old, including support for pregnant teens. The academy aims to enhance early childhood education and family engagement through various services. This initiative follows the awarding of an Early Head Start Grant in January 2026, marking a significant step in expanding access to quality education in the region. The ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Monday, May 18, at 1402 South Silver Avenue.
EducationSharyland ISD students take top prizes at Goodwill runway event
At the inaugural Runway: Cultura Meets Couture scholarship competition hosted by Goodwill Industries of South Texas, two students from Sharyland ISD achieved notable success. Febe-Grace Snyman from Sharyland Pioneer High School secured second place and a $2,000 scholarship, while Sophia Nguyen from Sharyland Advanced Academic Academy won the People's Choice Award, earning a $1,000 scholarship. The event, held at the McAllen Convention Center, showcased 13 student designers who created outfits using upcycled materials, emphasizing identity and culture. The competition raised over $51,000, with $7,000 allocated for scholarships, supporting Goodwill's job training and educational programs. The next event is scheduled for October 2027.