Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
EducationLos Fresnos CISD officially names Dr. Joseph Villarreal as superintendent of schools
The Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Joseph Villarreal as the new superintendent of schools, effective immediately. This decision was made during a special meeting on August 17, following his selection as the sole finalist on July 24 and the completion of a mandatory 21-day waiting period. Dr. Villarreal, who has 25 years of experience in education, previously served as superintendent in Santa Maria ISD and has held various leadership roles within Los Fresnos CISD. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return and is committed to enhancing academic excellence for all students. The board also thanked Jimmy McDonough for his interim leadership during the transition.
EducationIDEA Public Schools across the Valley to offer breakfast, lunch to all students
IDEA Public Schools in the Rio Grande Valley will provide free breakfast and lunch to all students starting Monday, August 17. This initiative is part of the Community Eligibility Provision under the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program, allowing students to receive meals without the need for applications. This change affects nearly 34,000 students across 51 campuses in the Valley. Two campuses, IDEA Palmview and IDEA Harlingen College Prep, opened their doors for the first time in 2020 and are now welcoming their inaugural senior class, the Class of 2027.
EducationMcAllen ISD holds send-off event for bus drivers on first day of school
On August 17, the McAllen Independent School District (MISD) kicked off the school year with a send-off event for its 66 school buses, which will transport over 19,000 students. Each day, the buses serve about 5,000 students across 60 routes. Superintendent Dr. René Gutiérrez expressed gratitude to the bus drivers for their commitment to student safety. Driver Tomasita Dillard, with nearly 15 years of experience, emphasized the importance of communication for ensuring safety. The district also introduced the 'Here Comes The Bus' app to help parents track their children's buses and stay informed about routes.
EducationSTISD Students to Eat Free Breakfast and Lunch for the 2026-2027 School Year
Students at South Texas Independent School District (STISD) will receive free breakfast and lunch during the 2026-2027 school year, marking the district's third year in the Community Eligibility Program (CEP). Starting August 17, the first day of school, breakfast will be served in classrooms before classes begin. Parents must complete an Income Survey as part of the electronic registration process in Skyward, but all students will qualify for free meals. STISD includes seven schools across the region, providing various educational programs. For more information, contact the Child Nutrition department at 956.514.4230.
EducationLos Fresnos CISD officially approves employment contract for superintendent
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District announced it has officially approved the employment contract of Dr. Joseph Villarreal as Superintendent of Schools. According to a news release from Los Fresnos CISD, the Board of Trustees approved the contract during a meeting on Monday. Villarreal will start as Superintendent immediately, bringing 25
EducationTexas Boys State Delegates Reflect on What Leadership Means
The RGV Boys State Alumni Group held its annual 'Reflections Ceremony' in Weslaco, where Texas Boys State Delegates shared insights from their leadership experiences at The University of Texas-Austin. This year, 55 delegates from the RGV were recognized, with eight sharing their stories. U.S. Congressman Vicente Gonzalez and Texas State Representative Armando Martinez presented Certificates of Achievement to the delegates. Honored guests included former delegates and local officials. The ceremony highlighted the importance of leadership and community support, with future presentations planned at school board meetings and the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court to honor these young leaders.
EducationDr. Joseph Villarreal Takes Over as New Superintendent of Los Fresnos CISD
The Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District (Los Fresnos CISD) officially welcomed Dr. Joseph Villarreal as its new superintendent of schools after the Board of Trustees approved his employment contract during a special meeting held on Monday, August 17. Villarreal begins his duties immediately and comes to the position with 25 years of experience in public education. His appointment also marks a return to Los Fresnos CISD, a district and community that have been significant in his professional journey. Prior to becoming superintendent, Villarreal held various leadership positions at both the school and district levels within Los Fresnos CISD, including roles at Liberty Memorial Middle School, Resaca Middle School, Los Fresnos United, and Academic Services. The Board of Trustees expressed confidence that the new superintendent will continue the district's academic work and help expand opportunities for students. 'We are confident that his leadership will build on our district's history of academic excellence and continue to drive opportunities for every student,' said Donald Henderson, president of the Board of Trustees. After the meeting, Board members and the Executive Cabinet met with Villarreal and his family to officially mark the beginning of this new chapter for Los Fresnos CISD. With his arrival, the district aims to continue strengthening its leadership and maintain a focus on academic success and educational opportunities for all its students. Los Fresnos CISD invited the community to join in welcoming Dr. Joseph Villarreal as the new superintendent of schools.
EducationSTVT McAllen Launches Automotive Service Technician Program
The South Texas Vocational Technical Institute (STVT) has launched a new Automotive Service Technician program at its McAllen campus. The program aims to address the increasing demand for skilled technicians capable of working on advanced vehicles. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, STVT President Vanessa Pardo emphasized the importance of preparing students for careers that meet local workforce needs. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training in areas such as engine repair and diagnostics. Local officials, including McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos, highlighted the value of technical education in providing direct employment opportunities for students.
EducationEarthquake in Colombia: What Will Happen to Children's Education?
A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia, severely impacting education for thousands of children, particularly in rural areas. Over 3,200 schools sustained damage, with many children unable to attend classes due to lack of infrastructure and connectivity. In La Encharca, a remote village, students have not had classes since the quake, as the school awaits a safety assessment. In Pereira, 165 schools are in critical condition, leaving over 58,000 children temporarily out of school. Local officials are coordinating aid and exploring options for virtual classes, but many families lack the necessary technology and resources.
EducationTexa schools A-F grades relatively flat while more districts hope to avoid takeovers
Texas public schools maintained stable A-F accountability grades, with 24% of over 9,000 campuses receiving an A, while 57% earned a B or C, and 14% received a D or F. Five districts, including Austin and Waco, are at risk of state intervention due to chronic underperformance. Austin ISD officials reported that two middle schools failed state standards for the fifth consecutive year. Education Commissioner Mike Morath noted progress in high-poverty schools earning A ratings. The ratings influence parental school choices and business investments, while districts have until September 11 to appeal their grades to the Texas Education Agency.
EducationGov. Greg Abbott proposes further limiting screen time in K-12 classrooms
Governor Greg Abbott has proposed further restrictions on screen time in K-12 schools, aiming to enhance student learning. This initiative builds on the recent ban of cell phones in public school classrooms. Abbott cited studies suggesting that reduced screen time correlates with better academic performance and emphasized the importance of physical materials like books and direct teacher instruction. While specific guidelines for screen limits across grades were not detailed, Abbott's proposal will be addressed by the Legislature next year. Texas schools have already seen positive outcomes from the cellphone ban, including improved class participation and reduced bullying.
EducationSTHS Behavioral shares tips to ease Valley kid back-to-school stress
South Texas Health System Behavioral is offering guidance for parents to help their children manage back-to-school stress as the 2026-27 school year approaches. Nearly 40% of parents report increased stress during the school year compared to summer, primarily due to managing schedules. Signs of stress in children can include stomachaches, irritability, and trouble concentrating. To ease the transition, parents are advised to establish routines a week or two before school starts, create a supportive environment for discussing feelings, and model calm behavior. If anxiety persists, seeking help from a mental health professional is recommended. Parents can contact the STHS Behavioral hotline at 956-388-1300 for support.
EducationPublic School Ratings Across Texas Reveal Steady Academic Gains
Recent public school ratings in Texas show steady academic progress, with significant improvements among economically disadvantaged campuses. In 2026, 396 schools with over 80% economically disadvantaged students received an A rating, including Dovalina Elementary and Goodrich High School. The percentage of schools earning A or B ratings rose from 59% to 61%. Meanwhile, the number of failing schools decreased from 5% to 4%. The Texas Legislature has approved an $8.5 billion education reform package aimed at supporting struggling schools. The ratings serve as a vital tool for parents and policymakers to assess school performance and identify areas needing improvement.
EducationIDEA Public Schools Welcomes Nearly 34,000 RGV Students Back to School, Aug. 17th
On August 17, nearly 34,000 students will return to 51 IDEA Public Schools campuses in the Rio Grande Valley for the 2026–27 school year. This year marks a significant milestone for IDEA Palmview College Preparatory and IDEA Harlingen College Preparatory, as they welcome their first senior class. To celebrate, seniors will participate in a special event, inviting parents to walk them to their homerooms with kindergarten-style backpacks. The schools will also unveil a Senior Class Wall to honor this inaugural graduating class. Additionally, all students will receive free meals under the Community Eligibility Provision, simplifying access for families.
EducationLa Joya ISD launches new service to help families with transportation concerns
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — With the start of the school year already in motion, the La Joya Independent School District is prepared to help families get their loved ones to campus and back home safely. The La Joya ISD transportation help desk is the district's newest service designed to work directly with families for all
EducationUS Department of Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling visits TSC
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling visited Texas Southmost College on Thursday to see how some education programs are getting local workers into the workforce. Sonderling said it was important to view how the workforce policies being promoted in D.C. are playing out locally in programs such as nursing, pipefitting
EducationHundreds of PSJA ISD Families Get Ready for the New School Year at Back to School Expo
On August 6, 2026, the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) hosted its 15th Annual Back to School Expo, attracting hundreds of families. The event, held at all six PSJA ISD high schools, provided essential services such as student registration, immunizations, and uniform purchases, all in one location. Various district departments, including Transportation and Health Services, were present to assist families. Parents appreciated the organization and convenience of the expo, which also featured resources for early childhood education. PSJA ISD encourages families needing further assistance to visit their website or call for help before school starts on August 24, 2026.
EducationDiscover Adult Education Options at Upcoming PossAble Dream High School Info Sessions
PossAble Dream Adult High School is hosting information sessions in Pharr, La Joya, and Rio Grande City for adults interested in earning their high school diploma. These sessions will cover the benefits of the tuition-free program, including flexible schedules, career certifications, childcare support, and job placement assistance. The first session will take place on August 14, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. in Pharr, followed by additional sessions in La Joya on August 15 and 18, and at South Texas College on August 20. The school aims to serve residents in several counties in Deep South Texas.
EducationSTC Launches New Plumbing Technician Program
South Texas College's Center for Advanced Training and Apprenticeships (CATA) is launching a Plumbing Technician Program this fall, offering 242 hours of free training for eligible students. Funded by the Texas Reskilling and Upskilling Education grant and the Texas Public Education Grant, the program aims to equip participants with essential plumbing and construction skills. It includes classroom instruction and hands-on training based on National Craft Assessment and Certification standards. Students will learn about construction tools, plumbing systems, and pipefitting. While the program does not provide a state plumbing license, it offers credentials recognized in the industry. More details can be found at southtexascollege.edu/cata/.