Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationGovernor Issues Agency Directives To Prepare Texans For High-Demand Jobs
Governor Greg Abbott has announced new directives aimed at enhancing workforce development in Texas, focusing on high-demand and high-paying jobs in various industries. During a press conference at the Governor’s Mansion, Abbott outlined immediate actions for state agencies, following recommendations from the Texas Jobs Council, which he established in March. Key initiatives include expanding apprenticeship opportunities, creating a centralized online career resource hub, and promoting careers in trades that do not require a bachelor’s degree. The Texas Jobs Council will reconvene this fall to prepare legislative recommendations for the upcoming legislative session.
EducationMcAllen ISD, STC partnership offers free veterinary program to high school students
McAllen Independent School District (ISD) has partnered with South Texas College (STC) to launch a free two-year veterinary program for high school students. Approved during a recent school board meeting, the program will allow twelve students to gain hands-on experience in veterinary technology. Students will learn essential skills such as administering shots and caring for various animals, while also working with local clinics to earn practical hours. McAllen ISD officials emphasize the growing need for veterinarians in the Rio Grande Valley, making this initiative a valuable opportunity for students preparing for careers in the field. Classes begin in August.
EducationWhich Bible passages are in Texa proposed student reading list? Here what the selections reveal.
The Texas State Board of Education is set to vote on a proposal requiring students from kindergarten to high school to read selected Bible passages. The list includes stories like 'Noah’s Ark' and 'David and Goliath,' along with specific translations that may influence the interpretation of the texts. Critics argue that the curriculum prioritizes Christian perspectives and excludes other religious viewpoints, potentially leading to divisiveness. Supporters believe these readings will enhance students' understanding of historical and moral principles. The final vote is scheduled for June 22-26, with implementation planned for 2030 if approved.
EducationStudent Speakers Share Stories of Perseverance and Future Goals at McHC Scholarship Banquet
At the 2026 McAllen Housing Commission Scholarship Banquet held at the Verta Hotel, scholarship recipients Mayeli Hernandez from McAllen High School and Aimee Guerrero from PSJA North Early College High School shared their inspiring stories of perseverance. Hernandez spoke about overcoming self-doubt and her plans to study Integrated Health Sciences and Music at UTRGV. Guerrero reflected on the challenges of balancing academics and extracurriculars, crediting her mother for her support. The event recognized 19 scholarship recipients, funded by the annual Robert 'Bobby' Calvillo fundraiser, emphasizing themes of education, family support, and personal growth.
EducationRudy Ramirez Encourages Students to Pursue Education and Build Generational Success
Rodolfo "Rudy" Ramirez, Executive Director of the McAllen Housing Commission, spoke at the 2026 McHC Scholarship Banquet held at the Verta Hotel, encouraging students to pursue education and support future generations. The event celebrated 19 scholarship recipients and highlighted the program's impact, which has awarded over $103,000 in scholarships to 78 students in five years. Ramirez emphasized that education is vital for community growth and personal development. He shared his own educational journey and urged students to stay focused on their goals. McAllen officials echoed his sentiments, reinforcing the importance of education for lasting community success.
EducationPepe Cabeza de Vaca Congratulates Scholarship Recipients and Emphasizes the Value of Education
Pepe Cabeza de Vaca, McAllen's Mayor Pro-Tem, celebrated 19 scholarship recipients at the 2026 McAllen Housing Commission Scholarship Banquet held at the Verta Hotel on June 18. He praised their dedication to education and encouraged them to continue pursuing their academic goals. Cabeza de Vaca emphasized the importance of education in creating opportunities and strengthening communities. Elva M. Cerda, Chair of the McAllen Housing Commission, echoed these sentiments, wishing the students success in their future educational endeavors. The event recognized seniors from various local high schools and highlighted the partnership between the city and the housing commission in supporting student achievement.
EducationEddie Cantu Urges Scholarship Recipients to Pursue Education With Purpose and Perseverance
Hidalgo County Precinct 2 Commissioner Eduardo "Eddie" Cantu delivered a motivational keynote at the 2026 McAllen Housing Commission Scholarship Banquet on June 18 at the Verta Hotel. Addressing 19 scholarship recipients from local high schools, Cantu emphasized the importance of perseverance, humility, and community service in education. He shared his own educational journey, urging students to seek help and utilize available resources. Cantu also highlighted the significance of faith and family support, reminding students that the scholarships represent the belief others have in their potential. The event celebrated academic achievements and the commitment to future educational pursuits.
EducationMcAllen Housing Commission Awards Scholarships to 19 Students at 2026 Banquet
The McAllen Housing Commission held its 2026 Scholarship Banquet on June 18 at the Verta Hotel, honoring 19 graduating seniors from local high schools. The event, supported by the Robert “Bobby” Calvillo Home Is Where the Heart Is 5K fundraiser, recognized students for their academic achievements. Over the past five years, the program has awarded scholarships to 78 students, totaling over $103,000. This year, $23,000 was distributed. Keynote speaker Hidalgo County Commissioner Eduardo Cantu encouraged students to stay humble and work hard. The evening included speeches from recipients and concluded with the presentation of scholarship certificates.
EducationUTRGV makes U.S. News' Best Global Universities ranking
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley was ranked in U.S. News & World Report's 2026-2027 Best Global Universities list. UTRGV was ranked No. 1,153 in the Best Global Universities ranking, out of more than 2,250 universities from 105 countries worldwide. UTRGV was also ranked No. 1,111 in Clinical Medicine for
EducationPharr Honors Vanguards Academy Picasso Elementary for 1st Place National Win
The Pharr City Commission, led by City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores, honored students from Vanguard Academy Picasso Elementary for winning first place in the national Greenpower USA competition. This STEM engineering program encourages students to design, build, and race electric vehicles. The students, part of the after-school STEM ACE program, demonstrated remarkable teamwork and innovation while competing against schools nationwide. Dr. Lizette Longoria, Director for 21st Century Learning at Vanguard Academy, praised the students for their perseverance and teamwork, emphasizing how such programs ignite curiosity and help students explore their talents.
EducationSTC and McAllen ISD Team Up to Train Next-Gen Vet Techs
South Texas College (STC) and McAllen Independent School District (ISD) have launched the second year of their apprenticeship program aimed at training future veterinary technicians. This initiative, which began in August 2022 with 10 seniors, will now include 12 juniors starting this fall. Students will gain hands-on experience at local veterinary clinics while combining classroom learning with practical skills. The program addresses the high demand for veterinary professionals, particularly for large animals, and aims to prepare students for careers in veterinary technology. The partnership reflects a commitment to workforce development and meaningful career pathways for local students.
EducationDHR Health Celebrates Graduating Class of Medical Residents, Fellows, and Pharmacy Residents
DHR Health celebrated the graduation of over 30 medical residents, fellows, and pharmacy residents from its Graduate Medical Education (GME) program on June 13, 2026, at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. The ceremony recognized the hard work and dedication of the graduates, who are now prepared to serve communities with excellence and compassion. Hospital leadership and family members attended the event to honor this significant achievement. Marissa Castaneda, senior executive vice president of DHR Health, emphasized the importance of this milestone in the graduates' careers in healthcare.
EducationFormer Scholarship Recipients Share Lessons at Pharr EDC Foundation Ceremony
During the 2026 Pharr EDC Foundation Scholarship Award Ceremony, former scholarship recipients shared their inspiring stories with this year's awardees. Victor Perez, president of the Pharr EDC, highlighted the foundation's five-year journey, having awarded over $1 million to more than 500 students. Speakers Kassandra Bucio, Michael Morgan, and Lizeth Chavez emphasized the scholarships' impact beyond financial support, focusing on personal validation and community belief in their potential. The event also featured special scholarships from the Rio Grande Valley Builders Association and concluded with the presentation of 50 scholarships to local high school students, recognizing their achievements and leadership.
EducationSenators Unveil Bill Targeting Relief for Military Homeschoolers
U.S. Senators Ted Cruz, Ted Budd, and Ashley Moody have introduced the COMPASS Act, aimed at easing the homeschooling process for military families during Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. This legislation allows these families to adhere to the homeschooling laws of their legal home state instead of switching to the new state's regulations, thereby reducing stress and providing educational stability. Cruz emphasized that military families homeschool at nearly double the civilian rate, and the bill aims to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles that can disrupt their children's education. The bill is supported by several organizations, including the Home School Legal Defense Association.
EducationRGV Students Graduate from Prestigious Texas Boys State Program
Over 50 students from the Rio Grande Valley graduated from the American Legion Texas Boys State program in Austin last week. These delegates participated in a week-long event where they campaigned for various political positions, including Governor and Attorney General, and learned about leadership and the political process. Each student was assigned to a city, county, and district, culminating in elections for key offices. The program, which selects participants based on leadership qualities and community involvement, aims to prepare Texas' top high school seniors for future success. Notably, alumni like Bobby Pulido are using their experiences to run for political office.
EducationTexas Tech Welcomes Six PSJA ISD Leaders into Innovative PhD Program
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) has achieved a milestone with six educators accepted into Texas Tech University's PhD program in Curriculum and Instruction, focusing on Blended and Personalized Learning. This opportunity arose from a partnership linked to the Texas Education Agency’s Blended Learning Grant initiative. The educators, who previously completed a 15-hour graduate certificate, include Jessica Moore, Kimberly Ortega, Karla Rodriguez, Jonathan Chapa Trigo, Valentin Guerra, and Senyda Elizondo. PSJA Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias emphasized the program's relevance to the district's goals, enhancing instructional practices and student learning experiences.
EducationPharr EDC Foundation Awards 50 Scholarships to Local Students
The Pharr EDC Foundation awarded 50 scholarships to local high school students during its 2026 Scholarship Award Ceremony on June 1. Victor Perez, president of the Pharr Economic Development Corporation, highlighted that the foundation has provided over $1 million in scholarships to more than 500 students in its first five years. Keynote speaker Romeo Cantu shared his journey from the Rio Grande Valley to a successful media career, urging students to embrace their heritage and be proud of their roots. He emphasized the importance of storytelling and encouraged students to remember their families and community as they pursue higher education.
EducationAP Exclusive: The private school choice boom leaves behind many kids in public school
In Fort Worth, Texas, Maria Contreras is exploring private school options for her son Ian, who struggles with focus and learning. As states, including Texas, expand taxpayer-funded scholarships for private education, many public school families remain unaware of these opportunities or lack the means to access them. The new Texas Education Freedom Accounts program allocates around $1 billion to assist families with private schooling costs. However, an analysis shows that most beneficiaries are students already in private or home schools. Ian's family faces challenges in securing a scholarship due to late evaluations for his learning disability, leaving them uncertain about his educational future.
EducationTowards Private Education? Scholarships Encourage Students to Leave Public Schools
The visit to the Catholic school ended, and María Contreras felt an irresistible urge to enroll her 7-year-old son there. But first, a difficult question: 'Could my son be expelled?' she asked the principal in Spanish. The second grader has trouble concentrating, doesn't listen to teachers, and runs around the classroom, she explained. More and more families across the United States are experimenting with private schools as states—and soon the federal government—use tax-funded scholarships to encourage them to leave public schools. Soon, half of American students will be eligible to apply for state funds to finance a private education, with many states offering scholarships even to high-income families. In theory, these programs should provide children with educational opportunities they would not otherwise have. In reality, students already attending private schools or receiving homeschooling are the ones most likely to benefit, according to an analysis by The Associated Press. The reasons are complex. In some cases, families with children in public schools are unaware of these scholarship programs, known as vouchers or education savings accounts. They may lack transportation to take their children to private school. Some worry that their child won't adapt to a stricter disciplinary environment. Sometimes, as is the case in Texas—the most recent state to join the private school choice movement, which already has $10.5 billion—the law is written to benefit families who know how to navigate complex educational systems. Contreras and her husband grew up in a Catholic family in Mexico. They moved to Texas, where he found work as a welder, and eventually obtained their green cards. They were relatively happy sending their three older children to public schools in Fort Worth. However, their youngest son, Ian, faced several challenges. He was reading well below the expected level for his age. In the fall, Contreras asked Ian's teacher to test him for possible learning difficulties, unaware that there was a legally mandated process to request that evaluation. For months, no one assessed her son. And she was not alone. At her son's elementary school—where almost all students come from low-income families, and most are still learning English—learning difficulties have been diagnosed at a surprisingly low rate. Only 4% qualify for special education services, compared to 14% district-wide. Contreras didn't know it then, but without those tests, she would have few options to pay for a new school for Ian.