Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationTexas poised to approve more Bible stories, history revamp but changes for high schoolers delayed
The Texas State Board of Education is set to approve new social studies and reading curricula for K-8 students that emphasize the Bible while minimizing diversity. A final vote is expected soon, but changes for high school subjects like U.S. history and geography have been postponed. Critics, including educators and Democrats, argue that the revisions are rushed and overly simplistic, focusing on memorization rather than critical thinking. The proposed reading list includes Christian stories for students as young as six. The board will decide whether to implement changes all at once or gradually, with high school updates possibly discussed in September.
EducationTexas State Board of Education Approves Bible Stories for Required Public School Reading List
The Texas State Board of Education has approved a new reading list that includes selected Bible stories and passages as required reading for public school students, starting in the 2030-31 school year. This decision follows legislation mandating the establishment of required literary works for students. The list features various biblical texts appropriate for different grade levels, including well-known stories such as The Golden Rule, The Parable of the Prodigal Son, and passages from Genesis and Psalms. The Texas Education Agency has released the proposed list and administrative rules to implement these changes across all public schools in Texas.
Texas board approves Bible stories as required reading in public schools
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — The Texas education board on Friday approved a required reading list for more than 5 million public school students that includes Bible passages, widening conservative efforts to push Christian teachings in U.S. classrooms. The Texas State Board of Education, which is controlled by Republicans, approved the list of over critics who
EducationSTC Earns National Recognition as ‘Opportunity College’
South Texas College (STC) has been named an Opportunity College by the Carnegie Foundation and the American Council on Education, recognizing its efforts to enhance access to higher education and improve student outcomes. This designation places STC among 478 colleges nationwide that exceed benchmarks for student access and post-graduate earnings. STC President Ricardo J. Solis emphasized the college's commitment to creating educational opportunities that positively impact students and the community. The recognition highlights STC's focus on academic support and innovative programs aimed at helping students graduate and achieve economic mobility in Hidalgo and Starr counties.
EducationPSJA ISD Sustains National Excellence with 12th Straight Music Education Award
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) has received the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) Award for the 12th consecutive year from the NAMM Foundation. This recognition highlights the district's dedication to offering high-quality music education to its students. The award is based on various factors, including funding, participation rates, and community support. PSJA ISD continues to invest in music programs, including band, choir, and mariachi, and is renovating the Oso Dome Auditorium to enhance performance opportunities. Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias emphasized the importance of fine arts in education and the collective efforts of educators and families in supporting these programs.
EducationSTC Launches Free STEM Camps in July
South Texas College (STC) will host free STEM camps for middle and high school students starting in July, funded by a grant from the Texas Workforce Commission. The camps, including Biology Explorers, Cybersecurity, and Welding, aim to introduce students to high-demand careers while eliminating financial barriers. Open to eligible students from sixth to twelfth grade across the Rio Grande Valley, the camps will feature hands-on activities at STC's Pecan Campus and other locations. Each camp lasts one week, providing an engaging introduction to STEM fields. For more details, visit STC's website.
EducationTexas Approves Mandatory Bible Readings in Public Education
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) voted and approved a list of mandatory readings for over 5 million public school students that includes biblical passages, expanding conservative efforts to promote Christian teachings in U.S. classrooms. The proposal in Texas, which would require reading literary works such as Charles Dickens' 'Great Expectations' alongside parables from the New Testament, has been closely monitored by education observers, who note that it appears to be the first of its kind in the country. The reading list is set to take effect in 2030 upon approval. Texas, which educates about 1 in 10 public school students in the nation, has been at the forefront of the conservative push to incorporate more religion into classrooms. The state already allows public schools to hire chaplains to counsel students, requires the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms, and has approved an optional curriculum with biblical content. For months, critics have questioned both the push for mandatory biblical readings and the state requirement for students to read certain books, decisions that typically rest with teachers. Educators would still be able to assign additional readings beyond the mandatory titles.
EducationPSJA ISD pianist talks about performing at venues worldwide
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Memorial Early College High School pianist recently performed at the Teatro Colón in the city of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Francisco Rocafuerte, a distinguished Mexican artist who resides in McAllen, told ValleyCentral he has been a collaborative pianist for the PSJA Memorial Early College High School choir for two
EducationWhat to know about the push to make Bible stories required reading in Texas public schools
A proposal in Texas aims to make Bible stories mandatory reading for over 5 million public school students, reigniting discussions about religion in education. The Texas State Board of Education is set to vote on the plan, which follows last year's requirement for classrooms to display the Ten Commandments. Supporters argue that Judeo-Christian values are foundational to the nation, while critics claim it violates the separation of church and state and lacks diversity. The proposed reading list includes stories from the Old and New Testaments, with readings planned from elementary through high school, set to take effect in 2030 if approved.
EducationSTC Partnership Powers McAllen Utility Workforce with Hands-On Training
South Texas College's Center for Advanced Training and Apprenticeships (CATA) has launched a Heavy Equipment Operator program in collaboration with McAllen Public Utilities. This initiative, funded by the North American Development Bank, aims to enhance safety awareness and operational skills among utility employees, preparing them for certification in equipment operation. The 25-hour course combines classroom instruction with hands-on training, covering essential topics like safety procedures and precision excavation. The first cohort of nine employees completed the training on June 18, with a second group of ten set to finish soon. Participants, like Juan Barron, emphasize the program's role in advancing their careers and improving public utility services.
EducationSTC Captures National Spotlight for AI Education Initiatives
South Texas College (STC) recently hosted representatives from Columbia State Community College in Tennessee to discuss advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and workforce education. The visit was part of Columbia's COMPASS initiative, aimed at enhancing AI integration in education. STC showcased its AI initiatives, particularly in manufacturing and technology programs, emphasizing the importance of ethical AI use. Both institutions expressed interest in future collaborations, including workforce development and research projects. STC leaders highlighted their commitment to innovation and responsible AI practices, positioning the college as a national leader in AI education.
EducationBrownsville ISD Selects New Superintendent
The Brownsville Independent School District (Brownsville ISD) Board of Trustees has announced Dr. Timothy E. Cuff as the sole finalist for the position of superintendent. According to Texas law, the board must observe a mandatory waiting period of 21 days before conducting the final vote to officially appoint him. If the board approves the appointment after this waiting period, Dr. Cuff will become the next superintendent of Brownsville ISD.
EducationFormer Edinburg CISD Football Coach Surrenders Over Alleged Inappropriate Relationship
Former Edinburg CISD football coach Christian Roxburgh appeared before Justice of the Peace Andre Maldonado to face charges related to an alleged inappropriate relationship with a former student. The district took immediate action upon learning of the accusations, adhering to its internal policies and state laws. Edinburg CISD has stated it will not disclose any information that could identify the alleged victim, in compliance with federal student privacy laws. The investigation into the case is ongoing.
EducationBrownsville ISD names lone finalist for superintendent role
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- The Brownsville Independent School District Board of Trustees named Timothy E. Cuff as the lone finalist for its superintendent position. The announcement was made on Wednesday during a regular board meeting. Brownsville ISD officially began its search for a superintendent in April, following the announcement that former superintendent Jesus H. Chavez
EducationMore Bible stories for public schools given initial approval by Texas education board
The Texas State Board of Education has given initial approval to a reading list for public schools that emphasizes Bible stories while minimizing cultural diversity. The proposed curriculum includes Christian narratives like Adam and Eve and the Parable of the Prodigal Son for students as young as six. Additionally, a significant overhaul of social studies lessons is being debated, which would focus more on Texas and U.S. history while deemphasizing world cultures. The board heard mixed reactions from nearly 500 attendees during public testimony, with final votes on both proposals expected on Friday. If approved, changes will take effect in the 2030-31 school year.
EducationSTC Continuing Education Begins Free CPR Courses
South Texas College (STC) is offering free CPR, Basic Life Support, and first aid courses every weekend this summer. Open to all community members, including healthcare professionals and police officers, the courses aim to equip participants with life-saving skills. Funded by a $100,000 grant from Texas Mutual Insurance Company, the program seeks to certify at least 800 individuals through the American Heart Association. Xenia Munoz, program coordinator, emphasizes the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Registration is available at southtexascollege.edu/cpit/courses/industry/health-care/.
EducationBrownsville ISD Approves School Budget Estimated at Over $570 Million
The Brownsville Independent School District (BISD) Board of Trustees approved a budget of $578 million for the 2026-2027 school year on June 23. This budget aims to fund educational programs, student services, and the needs of schools and departments throughout the district. Additionally, a new compensation plan for employees was approved, which includes a $1,300 salary increase for all teachers and sets the starting salary for new educators at $57,000 annually. The plan is designed not only to increase salaries but also to attract new professionals to the classrooms and continue supporting student education.
EducationHarlingen Police Youth Academy guides new generation of students
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Harlingen Police Department is hosting its annual youth academy to guide the next generation of law enforcement officers. During the youth academy, students will have the opportunity to work with police officers and learn the behind-the-scenes of law enforcement through hands-on activities. "We go through different phases that the Harlingen
EducationPSJA partners with UTSA for new Film Studies Academy
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District, in partnership with the University of Texas San Antonio, is launching a new Film Studies Academy that will allow high school students to earn up to 18 college credit hours towards UTSA's Undergraduate Film Minor in Film Studies. High school students will have the opportunity