Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationTexas community colleges showing small signs of recovery after enrollment decline, report finds
Texas community colleges are showing signs of recovery after years of declining enrollment, according to a recent report. While high school graduation rates have increased, many graduates have chosen to enter the workforce or attend out-of-state colleges. Currently, around 700,000 students are enrolled in community colleges, down from 750,000 fifteen years ago. To address this, colleges have expanded dual credit programs and short-term credential offerings. The report highlights improved student outcomes despite skepticism about higher education’s value among younger Americans. Changes in funding models in 2023 aim to support colleges based on student success rather than enrollment numbers.
EducationThirty Years of Opportunity as VAMOS Transforms Lives Across the Rio Grande Valley
VAMOS celebrated its 30th Annual Scholarship Banquet in McAllen, awarding $1 million in renewable scholarships to the Class of 2026. Since its inception in 1996, the organization has provided over $27 million in scholarships to more than 1,450 students in the Rio Grande Valley, combining financial aid with mentorship. Keynote speaker Elizabeth Diaz Gonzalez, a VAMOS alumna, shared how the scholarship transformed her life. The event highlighted the collaboration of educators, business leaders, and donors committed to expanding educational opportunities. VAMOS continues to support students throughout their college journey, fostering a network of successful alumni across various professions.
EducationEdcouch-Elsa ISD names lone finalist for superintendent
The Edcouch-Elsa Independent School District Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Rosalba De Hoyos as the lone finalist for the position of superintendent. This decision was made during a board meeting on July 6. Following a 21-day waiting period, her contract will be reviewed. Dr. De Hoyos has 31 years of experience in Texas public education, primarily in the Rio Grande Valley. Currently, she serves as the associate superintendent for instruction at McAllen ISD, where she previously acted as interim superintendent in 2023. Her extensive background includes roles as a teacher, counselor, and principal, among others.
EducationGovernor Launches Texas Classroom Commission
Governor Greg Abbott has announced the formation of the Texas Classroom Commission, which will be led by Courtney Boswell MacDonald from Kerrville. This initiative aims to involve Texas educators in enhancing public education and student success. The Commission will gather recommendations from exemplary teachers to improve classroom instruction and learning environments. It builds on previous investments in education and teacher salaries made by state leaders. MacDonald, a former teacher and current chair of the State Board for Educator Certification, will guide the Commission, which is expected to deliver its recommendations before the 90th Legislative Session.
EducationOperation Imagination Summer Camps at IMAS, July 6 – 24
Operation Imagination Summer Camp will take place at the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) in McAllen from July 6 to 24. Designed for children, the camp offers a week of engaging activities centered around science, art, and engineering. Campers will participate in hands-on projects, explore museum exhibits, and enjoy outdoor play. Various sessions are available for different age groups, with camps running weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is $200 per week, with discounts for IMAS members. Registration is required, and spots fill quickly.
EducationPrestigious ACS Catalyst Scholarship Awarded to STC Chem Grad
Yahir Rodriguez, a 22-year-old graduate from South Texas College (STC), has achieved significant academic success by earning an associate degree in Chemistry and receiving the prestigious ACS Catalyst Scholarship for the 2026-2027 academic year. This national scholarship honors students with strong academic records and leadership potential in chemistry. Rodriguez, who initially started in Radiologic Technology, switched majors after discovering his passion for chemistry. He credits his college experience, including friendships and mentorships, for his growth. Rodriguez aims to pursue a bachelor's degree in chemistry and eventually become an Anesthesiologist Assistant, encouraging others to seize opportunities in STEM fields.
EducationFive Rio Grande Valley cities rank as least educated in U.S.: WalletHub report
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Five cities in the Rio Grande Valley ranked as the least educated in America via a WalletHub report. Out of 150 large metropolitan areas, Brownsville and Harlingen ranked 148 for educational attainment and received a 14.81 score. McAllen, Edinburg and Mission ranked dead last in educational attainment with a score of
EducationValley event aims to encourage children's literacy skills
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- A new event in the Rio Grande Valley is giving kids a chance to turn big ideas into real businesses. Mija Media House and the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce are collaborating to launch the Kids Mercadito event. The event is inspired by 'Raspas con Mi Grandpa', a children's book authored
Education'The perfect collaboration': High school veterinary tech programs give experience while helping stray population
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Rio Grande Valley is home to a massive pet population - a fact that Yaqui Animal Rescue knows all too well. “We actually did a study at Donna North High School, where we asked 300 students how many pets they had in their homes," said Alyssa Cerroni, Yaqui's media and outreach
EducationSTC receives $75K grant from Metallica Scholars Initiative
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The legendary heavy-metal band Metallica is helping students at South Texas College build their careers through its nationally recognized scholarship initiative. South Texas College is one of 18 schools selected from across the country to receive a $75,000 grant. "Not every day can you say, hey, look, we're partnering up with
EducationCameron County Public Health to host kids summer camp
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Cameron County Public Health Department is hosting a summer camp this July to teach kids about public health. This year's camp is a whimsical medieval theme where kids will go on a quest to learn about public health and become public heroes. "The kids are going to get a lot
EducationSTC Faculty Honored for Using Metrics to Boost Student Outcomes
Serkan Celtek, director of Research and Analytical Services at South Texas College, has received a League of Excellence Award from the League for Innovation in the Community College. With 17 years at STC, Celtek emphasizes that data must be interpreted to tell meaningful stories about students and programs. His work supports various departments in making informed decisions through data analysis. Recently, he has modernized STC’s data resources with interactive dashboards and has contributed to AI initiatives by analyzing surveys on technology adoption. Celtek believes that innovation stems from curiosity and a commitment to improving student outcomes.
EducationTrump Administration Launches New Two-Plan Student Loan Repayment System
Starting July 1, 2026, new provisions from the Trump Administration's Working Families Tax Cuts Act will simplify student loan repayment for federal borrowers. Two new plans are now available: the Tiered Standard repayment plan, which offers fixed terms based on the loan amount, and the income-driven Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), where monthly payments are determined by income. Borrowers can benefit from interest waivers and matching principal payments. Additionally, new loan limits for graduate programs aim to prevent excessive borrowing. The Workforce Pell program will also launch, providing access to short-term education programs to meet workforce needs.
EducationSTC Welcomes Alumna as New District 7 Trustee
Rina Castillo, an Edcouch-Elsa resident, has been elected as the new trustee for District 7 on the South Texas College Board. With a focus on increasing college accessibility and opportunities, Castillo aims to enhance student support services, including food and clothing resources. She has a background in education and currently works as a Community and Economic Development agent, advocating for small business growth and financial empowerment. Castillo holds degrees in Business Administration and Public Affairs and is pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership. She emphasizes the importance of supporting students from underserved areas throughout her term, which lasts until May 2032.
EducationSTC Named to Nationally Recognized Metallica Scholars Initiative
South Texas College (STC) has been selected as one of 18 institutions nationwide to receive a $75,000 grant from the Metallica Scholars Initiative. This funding will support scholarships and equipment for students in the Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics Technology program. STC's Executive Director Marcos Silva expressed excitement about the partnership, emphasizing its potential to enhance workforce skills in the Rio Grande Valley. The grant is part of a larger initiative that has allocated over $3.3 million this year, aiming to assist nearly 4,000 students in the U.S. and 1,000 in the U.K. with career-oriented training.
EducationVAMOS Alumna Elizabeth Diaz Gonzalez Urges Students to Let Their Choices Shape Their Future
Elizabeth Diaz Gonzalez, a 1999 VAMOS scholarship recipient and current principal of the UTRGV McAllen ISD Collegiate Academy, inspired the latest VAMOS scholars during the 30th Annual VAMOS Scholarship Banquet. She shared her personal journey from a challenging childhood to becoming an educator, emphasizing that while circumstances can influence one's path, choices ultimately shape the future. Gonzalez highlighted the importance of perseverance, kindness, and mentorship, urging students to focus on long-term goals. The banquet also celebrated VAMOS's commitment to educational opportunities, awarding $1 million in scholarships to the 2026 class and receiving a $25,000 donation from Chick-fil-A Rio Grande Valley.
EducationFrancisco Castellanos Encourages VAMOS Scholars to Dream Big and Persevere
Francisco Castellanos, a Chick-fil-A operator in Harlingen, inspired the 2026 VAMOS scholarship recipients at their 30th Annual Scholarship Banquet in McAllen. He emphasized the importance of dreaming big and remaining resilient despite challenges. Castellanos shared his personal journey from Mexico to the U.S., highlighting how he overcame obstacles to achieve success, including earning degrees while serving in the U.S. Army. He praised VAMOS for its commitment to supporting students beyond high school, providing mentorship and renewable scholarships. The event also celebrated VAMOS's 30th anniversary and awarded $1 million in scholarships to local students.
EducationVAMOS Celebrates 30th Annual Scholarship Banquet in McAllen
VAMOS, the Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships, celebrated its 30th annual scholarship banquet in McAllen, honoring 2026 scholarship recipients from the Rio Grande Valley. The event highlighted the achievements of students demonstrating academic excellence and leadership. Keynote speaker Elizabeth Diaz Gonzalez, a VAMOS alumna, shared her inspiring journey and emphasized the transformative power of education. The banquet recognized the support of sponsors, including Chick-fil-A, HR Health, and H-E-B, and noted that VAMOS has awarded over $26 million in scholarships since its founding in 1996. This year, $1 million in renewable scholarships was awarded to new scholars.
EducationSouth Texas ISD Science Academy wins national Esports title
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The South Texas Independent School District Science Academy Dragons are now national champions after competing at the 2026 Esports Series Championship in Orlando, Florida. The games were held June 25 through the 28 at Full Sail University and brought together the best youth esports teams in the country to compete for the