Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
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.
EducationSanta Fe Steakhouse Wine Classic Continues Scholarship Mission Through Sold-Out Tango at Quinta Mazatlán
The Santa Fe Steakhouse Wine Classic took place on April 17, 2026, at Quinta Mazatlán, featuring a sold-out event themed 'TANGO.' This annual fundraiser supports scholarships and educational programs in the Rio Grande Valley. Founded by Sony Rego, Albert Rego, and Fred Harms, the event showcases local culinary talent while raising over $350,000 since its inception. Guests enjoyed fine wines, gourmet food, and live Argentine Tango performances. The event emphasizes community involvement, with local restaurants and students playing key roles. Proceeds benefit educational initiatives, particularly at South Texas College, helping students pursue careers in culinary arts and hospitality.
EducationSTC Helps Alumna Reach the Top of the Real Estate Industry
Olga Arriaga, a graduate of the South Texas College (STC) Continuing Education and Advanced Training Real Estate program, credits her education for her successful career in real estate. Now the broker and owner of Dolce Vita Realty, Arriaga leads a team serving clients across South Texas. She valued the in-person learning experience at STC, which provided her with essential skills in contracts and client service. Arriaga emphasizes the importance of leadership and ongoing education in her career. She encourages prospective students to consider STC’s programs as a pathway to success, highlighting the practical skills gained through their training.
EducationHow One STC Biology Instructor is Changing How Students See Science
Xiomara Galvan Garcia, a Biology instructor at South Texas College (STC), is transforming how students perceive science by linking biological concepts to everyday experiences. Since her arrival at STC in 2017, she has nurtured curiosity and confidence among her students, encouraging them to see biology as the study of life itself. Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, Garcia holds a master's degree in Biology from UTRGV. She emphasizes the importance of community at STC, where she feels supported by colleagues. Garcia aims to inspire future scientists and healthcare professionals by fostering resilience and passion for learning in her students.
EducationRio Grande Valley IDEA Schools host free backpack giveaways
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — IDEA Public Schools in the Rio Grande Valley is hosting six free back-to-school backpack giveaways throughout July and August across its Valley campuses. According to a news release from IDEA Public Schools, the statewide initiative is designed to help students get a head start on the upcoming school year. Joseph Trevino,
EducationIDEA Public Schools to host free backpack giveaways across Rio Grande Valley
IDEA Public Schools is organizing six free backpack giveaways throughout the Rio Grande Valley in July and August as part of the Backpacks for Bright Futures initiative. The first 600 school-aged children at each event will receive a backpack filled with essential school supplies. Children must attend with a guardian, and there is no limit on the number of backpacks per family. Local businesses will also provide additional resources and activities. The events kick off on July 11, 2026, at IDEA Weslaco Academy, with subsequent giveaways in Edinburg, La Joya, San Juan, Palmview, and Brownsville. More details can be found at www.ideapublicschools.org.
EducationEdcouch-Elsa ISD announces lone finalist for superintendent
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Edcouch-Elsa Independent School District Board of Trustees named Rosalba De Hoyos as the lone finalist for its superintendent position. The school board voted to name De Hoyos as the lone finalist on Monday during a regular board meeting. "I am honored by the board’s confidence," De Hoyos said. Under state law,
EducationNew Fleet Leaders Emerge as Navy Officers Complete Surface Navigation Course
The Surface Navigation Course at Surface Warfare Schools Command is training the next generation of Navy navigators. This program, which has expanded from five to seven weeks, combines traditional celestial navigation with modern systems like the Voyage Management System. Students learn to navigate without relying solely on technology, preparing them for real-world challenges where GPS may be unavailable. The course has resulted in a 17% increase in graduation rates, equipping sailors with the skills to confidently manage navigation under pressure. The integration of enlisted personnel as assistant navigators enhances the effectiveness of navigation teams on ships.