Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationVantage Bank Executive Cris Moncayo Praises Student Talent at Bank On INT Launch
Cris Moncayo, Senior Vice President at Vantage Bank, highlighted the importance of collaboration and student talent during the launch of the second year of the Bank On INT paid internship program in Edinburg. The program, which involves the City of Edinburg, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, UTRGV, and local banks, aims to enhance workforce development for students in the Rio Grande Valley. Moncayo noted the competitive nature of internships, with over 400 applications for 20 positions. She encouraged students to engage fully in the experience and consider careers in banking, emphasizing the program's role in shaping future business leaders.
EducationEdinburg EDC, UTRGV partner to provide bank internships for students
The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has teamed up with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) to offer banking internships to local students. Seven students were selected from a pool of 120 applicants to address the growing need for commercial lenders in the region. Edinburg EDC Executive Director Raudel Garza emphasized the importance of retaining talent within the Valley, as many skilled individuals often leave for opportunities elsewhere. The paid internships will commence on Monday, providing valuable experience for the students as they embark on their banking careers.
EducationEdinburg EDC Leads Launch of Second Year of Bank On INT Internship Program
The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) has officially launched the second year of the Bank On INT paid internship program, aimed at providing undergraduate students with practical experience in the banking sector. The program, initiated on June 5, 2026, involves a partnership between the City of Edinburg, EEDC, UTRGV, and several regional banks. Mayor Omar Ochoa emphasized the importance of this opportunity for students to gain real-world experience while earning a competitive salary. The initiative also aims to support workforce development and talent retention in the Rio Grande Valley, with local banks reporting successful placements of former interns into full-time roles.
EducationSpaceX awards $100K in scholarships to Brownsville ISD students
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — SpaceX awarded students from the Brownsville Independent School District with $100,000 in scholarships on Thursday. The partnership between SpaceX and Brownsville ISD awards 10 students with $10,000 scholarships each to help them pursue a higher education and support their career goals. It adds that, in addition to academic success, students will
EducationWeslaco ISD summer meal program runs through July 10 at no cost to students
Weslaco ISD is providing free lunches for students aged 18 and under this summer, funded by a federal grant. Last year, the program successfully served thousands of students, and the district aims to continue supporting families facing rising food costs. Weslaco ISD spokesperson Carlos Robledo emphasized the importance of nutritious meals, especially given current food inflation. The summer meal program will be available until July 10, 2026, and no school ID is required to receive a meal. Families are encouraged to contact their school district to confirm if their child's school is participating in the program.
EducationPharr EDC Foundation Awards 50 Scholarships at 2026 Ceremony
During the 2026 Scholarship Award Ceremony on June 1, the Pharr EDC Foundation awarded 50 scholarships to local high school students in Pharr, Texas. Victor Perez, president of the Pharr Economic Development Corporation, highlighted the foundation's commitment to educational advancement, noting that over $1 million has been awarded to more than 500 students in five years. Keynote speaker Romeo Cantu inspired students to embrace their backgrounds, while former scholarship recipients shared their educational journeys. The event also featured new partnerships with local industries, emphasizing the importance of workforce development alongside academic support.
EducationFrom ‘Waka Waka’ to the 2026 World Cup: Shakira to Lead the Highly Anticipated Opening Ceremony in Mexico
Colombian artist Shakira and Nigerian artist Burna Boy will present ‘Dai Dai’, the official song of the FIFA World Cup 2026, during the opening ceremony scheduled for June 11 at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, FIFA announced on Thursday. Shakira and Burna Boy will headline the show, which will also feature stars such as Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná, and Tyla. The organization emphasized that promoting this song will significantly boost its programs supporting children worldwide. 'Dai Dai serves as the official song of the World Cup, which also supports the FIFA Fund and Global Citizen for education, an initiative aiming to raise $100,000,000 by the end of the tournament, allowing access to football and quality education for children around the world,' FIFA stated in the announcement.
EducationNew Construction Academy Aims to Build the Rio Grande Valley Workforce from the Ground Up
A new partnership involving the South Texas Builders Association, Donna Independent School District, and South Texas College is set to launch nationally accredited construction trade programs in fall 2026. Efrain Gomez, treasurer of the Builders Association, emphasized that the initiative will benefit not only Donna but also Hidalgo County and the entire Rio Grande Valley by providing essential training in various construction skills. The programs will be housed at a Donna ISD facility and are open to both students and the public. Enrollment is currently underway, with opportunities for hands-on experience in construction-related careers.
EducationHidalgo County Judge's Office launches puppet show to educate children about hurricane preparedness
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —The Hidalgo County Judge's Office on Wednesday partnered up with the Hidalgo County Office of Emergency Management and the Fire Marshal to launch "Storm Safe with Sunny", an interactive puppet show educating children about hurricane preparedness. Families gathered at the free community event at the Pharr Memorial Library to learn about hurricane
EducationPSJA ISD Students Recognized for Graduating from Cybersecurity Internship Program
The Pharr City Commission recognized 13 students from PSJA ISD for completing the Methodist Healthcare Ministries Internship Program, aimed at developing future technology professionals. The students received specialized training in cybersecurity and collaborated with city technology staff on community digital literacy projects. IT Director Jose Peña highlighted their hard work, noting that one student earned an associate degree in cybersecurity from South Texas College. Each graduate received a certificate and a laptop, enhancing their readiness for further education and careers in technology. Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez expressed pride in their achievements and the future impact of their skills in cybersecurity.
EducationSTC Celebrates Reaccreditation of Its Powerful Dual Credit Program
South Texas College (STC) is celebrating its reaccreditation from the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP), making it the only nationally accredited dual credit program in Texas. This recognition highlights STC's commitment to providing high-quality dual credit opportunities for high school students, allowing them to earn college credits while still in school. STC partners with 21 school districts and has served over 150,000 students since 2000, saving families more than $464 million. The program offers various degrees and career options, reinforcing STC’s role as a leader in educational access and student success in the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationSTC Theatre & Dance’s 5th Annual South Texas New Play Festival, June 25-27
The 5th Annual South Texas New Play Festival, hosted by South Texas College Theatre & Dance, will take place from June 25 to 27 at the Cooper Center for Performing Arts in McAllen. The festival features stage readings, including 'Miriam’s Song' by Robert Paul Moreira, and a playwright panel. Three plays were selected from over 30 submissions, with finalists showcasing their work. Events include a panel on June 26 and a theatre fair. Festival passes are available for $15 until June 23, after which a $5 fee applies at the door. For more information, visit the South Texas College website.
Education'It's going to become much more unaffordable': New student loan rules spark concern
EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Sweeping changes to the federal student loan system are scheduled to take effect July 1, bringing significant changes for future borrowers and current students navigating repayment. Advocates warn the overhaul could make higher education more expensive for many families, with some students potentially turning to private lenders to fill funding gaps.
EducationRegion One to host educator job fair for 13 school districts
EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Region One Education Service Center is hosting an educator job gair on Wednesday. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at the Region One ESC Conference Center located at 1900 W. Schunior St. Teachers, support staff, or those exploring their options can stop by, bring their resumes, and meet
EducationMade in the 956: Valley couple runs non-profit to send students to college
A non-profit organization in Brownsville, RioProgress, is dedicated to assisting students in the Rio Grande Valley with their college applications. Founded in 2022 by Maria Fernanda Martinez Donaus and her husband Philippe, the organization aims to change the perception that college is unaffordable. They provide personalized plans for students and their families, ensuring they understand the costs and options available. Since its inception, the program has expanded from six to 26 students, with plans to increase to 40 for the Class of 2027. One student, Rayyan Farooqui, credits RioProgress for helping him secure a full scholarship to Duke University.
EducationFree nutrition classes being offered at Pharr Memorial Library
Pharr Memorial Library is hosting free nutrition classes aimed at combating high obesity and diabetes rates in the Rio Grande Valley. In collaboration with the Hidalgo County Health Department, these classes take place every Tuesday and Thursday until June. Participants will learn about daily fruit and vegetable intake, protein options, and physical exercises using resistance bands provided during the sessions. The classes begin at 5:30 p.m., offering valuable resources for community health improvement, according to Evelyn Rodriguez, a Public Health Technician with Hidalgo County Health and Human Services.
EducationMission CISD Celebrates the Class of 2026
Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) celebrated the Class of 2026 during its Spring Commencement on May 30, 2026, at Payne Arena in Hidalgo, Texas. Graduates from three high schools were honored for their achievements, personal growth, and leadership. Superintendent Dr. Cris King encouraged them to embrace new opportunities, while Veterans Memorial High School Principal Raul Luna reminded them to honor those who supported them. Students excelled in academics, fine arts, and athletics, with many participating in dual enrollment programs. The ceremony marked a significant transition as graduates prepared to embark on new journeys, equipped with valuable experiences.
EducationTEA assigns conservator to Lyford CISD as part of state accountability process
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has assigned Dr. Sylvia Ibarra as a conservator to the Lyford Consolidated Independent School District to oversee its turnaround efforts. This appointment, communicated to staff and parents on March 2, is intended as a support measure rather than a punishment. Dr. Ibarra, who also serves as conservator for Monte Alto and La Joya ISDs, will monitor Lyford Middle School's progress. Superintendent Dr. Michelle C. DeWitt highlighted ongoing initiatives to enhance student achievement and accountability, with preliminary data indicating a projected B rating for the middle school in 2026, reflecting significant improvement.
EducationTexas removes Spanish language option for commercial driver license tests
The Texas Department of Public Safety has announced that all commercial driver license (CDL) tests will now be conducted exclusively in English, eliminating the previously available Spanish option. This change follows federal requirements aimed at enforcing English proficiency among commercial drivers, particularly in light of a crackdown on noncitizen truck drivers. Governor Greg Abbott instructed the DPS to enforce these new guidelines, which align with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's updated standards. The removal of the Spanish option is part of broader restrictions affecting immigrant drivers in Texas, including halting CDL issuance to refugees and DACA recipients.