Education
Education news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
Education$10 Million Texas ACE Grant Powers La Joya ISD Extended Learning Initiatives
La Joya ISD has received a $10 million grant from the Texas ACE Program, part of the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers initiative. This funding will be allocated over five years, providing $2 million annually to enhance learning opportunities for students at ten elementary schools. The program aims to extend learning beyond the school day with academic support, enrichment activities, and family engagement initiatives. Starting September 1, 2026, the Texas ACE centers will foster safe environments where students can explore interests and develop skills, while also offering workshops for families to support student success.
EducationVanguard Academy addresses traffic concerns as Van Gogh campus begins new school year
Vanguard Academy's Van Gogh Campus in southern Pharr is facing increased traffic congestion as the new school year begins. Local resident Ricardo Lemus has noted the growing traffic issues over the years, particularly during school drop-off and pickup times. To address these concerns, the academy has implemented new traffic procedures, including a designated queuing lane to accommodate more vehicles and alleviate congestion on surrounding roads. The school is monitoring the situation and plans to collaborate with city officials to ensure safety. Lemus has adjusted his schedule to navigate the traffic, often leaving home much earlier to avoid delays.
EducationMcAllen ISD Begins $335 Million Bond Program at Lower Interest Rate
McAllen ISD is advancing its $335 million bond program following voter approval in May. The first phase of borrowing will provide up to $100 million for school modernization, safety improvements, and program expansions. The bonds, priced at 4.587% interest, are lower than the anticipated 5.05%, reducing costs for taxpayers. The funds will be repaid through the district's property tax collections without increasing the overall tax rate, which remains at $0.9322. The bond program includes allocations for various projects across schools, expected to be completed within five years. Moody’s Ratings affirmed the district's Aa2 credit rating.
EducationA Top Mark for PSJA ISD: District Claims ‘A’ Rating as All 44 Campuses Excel
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) has achieved a significant milestone by earning an 'A' rating in the 2026 Texas Accountability Ratings. Out of its 44 schools, 27 received an 'A', with over 61% of schools rated 'A' or 'B'. This success is attributed to years of focused efforts to enhance instruction and support educators. The district's Cradle to College model ensures strong academic foundations from Pre-K to high school, with initiatives like Early College High Schools providing students with college coursework opportunities. Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving these results.
EducationSTC Trustees Rally Around New Leadership and Future Expansion
The South Texas College (STC) Board of Trustees is gearing up for the 2026-2027 academic year with new leadership and a focus on expanding educational opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley. Board Chair Paul R. Rodriguez, who has served for 17 years, emphasized the importance of initiatives that benefit students. Recent programs include the nation’s first Registered Nursing Apprenticeship and an Avionics Technician program. Vice Chair Dalinda Gonzalez-Alcantar aims to address workforce needs and has championed initiatives like increasing the minimum wage to $15.75. The board is committed to being good stewards of taxpayer money while fostering a culture of education and workforce readiness.
EducationExcitement and nerves mark school start at Harlingen CISD's Early Childhood Academy
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Many students across the Valley are heading back to school this week, including those in the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District, who kicked off their first day Tuesday morning. ValleyCentral paid a visit to one school to see how the first day went for the tiniest students. At Early Childhood Academy,
Education'20 years is a milestone': Weslaco ISD superintendent to retire
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Weslaco Independent School District Board of Trustees voted to accept Superintendent Richard Rivera's retirement on Monday. Rivera will continue his role as superintendent through Dec. 31. Rivera's career with Weslaco ISD began in 1967, when he served as a classroom teacher and coach, setting the foundation for his role as
EducationTexas Classroom Commission Holds First Meeting at Governor’s Mansion
Governor Greg Abbott convened the first meeting of the Texas Classroom Commission at the Governor’s Mansion in Austin. Chaired by Courtney Boswell MacDonald, a former teacher and current chair of the State Board for Educator Certification, the Commission aims to enhance student achievement and support educators. Abbott emphasized the goal of making Texas the top state for education, focusing on improving proficiency in math and reading, reducing classroom screen time, and attracting quality teachers. The Commission will regularly meet and provide legislative recommendations for the upcoming 90th Texas Legislative Session.
EducationWeslaco ISD superintendent to retire in December
The Weslaco Independent School District board has accepted the retirement of Superintendent Dr. Richard Rivera, effective December 31. Rivera has dedicated 20 years to the district, expressing pride in his service and commitment to excellence. He stated that he has consistently fulfilled his responsibilities since first joining in 1996. During the meeting, the board considered appointing an interim superintendent but did not take any action on this matter. Rivera leaves with a sense of accomplishment and no regrets about his tenure as superintendent.
EducationHigh-powered rocket built by Valley students completes full flight, recovery in Hearne, TX
Students from the Rio Grande Valley successfully launched and recovered their high-powered rocket, Project Vortex, at Hearne Municipal Airport on August 8, 2026. The rocket reached an altitude of 8,300 feet and achieved speeds of around 900 feet per second. After deploying its drogue parachute during descent, the main parachute opened at 1,000 feet, ensuring a safe landing. This accomplishment concludes months of work by participants in the South Texas Astronomical Society's Launchpad program, who designed and built the rocket. The mission highlights their engineering skills and teamwork, marking a significant achievement in high-powered rocketry.
EducationMcAllen ISD's TECHnovate conference focuses on intersection of technology and learning
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — With the rapid rise in artificial intelligence technology, a lot of aspects of society are changing, including education. At McAllen ISD, they're embracing the change. About 2,500 McAllen ISD educators gathered on Friday for the district's 12th annual TECHnovate conference, a day of workshops focused on how technology and the classroom
EducationBack-to-school dates for 2026-2027 in the Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The beginning of the school year is right around the corner! ValleyCentral has compiled a list of the first day of classes for school districts across the Rio Grande Valley for the 2026-2027 school year. Cameron County BROWNSVILLE ISD - Aug. 10 SAN BENITO CISD - Aug. 10 HARLINGEN CISD - Aug.
EducationRio-South Texas Education & Community Development Foundation (RSTEF) Partners with Texas Southmost College Foundation
The Rio-South Texas Education & Community Development Foundation (RSTEF) has partnered with the Texas Southmost College Foundation, investing $390,000 in the Achievement Scholarship initiative. This program aims to assist 520 economically disadvantaged students in completing technical credentials and entering the workforce, prioritizing single parents and adult children from single-parent households. RSTEF, a nonprofit focused on education and workforce development, has awarded $11.6 million since 2019, leveraging it to generate $23.2 million for various programs across the Rio South Texas Region. Their funding cycle runs from July 1 to August 31.
EducationSTC Brings Construction Management Program to Mid-Valley Campus This Fall
South Texas College (STC) is expanding its Construction Management program to the Mid-Valley Campus this fall, enhancing access for students in Weslaco, Donna, and Mercedes. Previously available only at the Technology Campus, this move aims to eliminate transportation barriers and meet the growing demand for skilled construction professionals. The program offers training in project planning, estimating, and safety, preparing graduates for various roles in the construction industry. With classes already full, STC emphasizes the importance of workforce development and providing affordable education options for students seeking rewarding careers in construction.
EducationLa Joya ISD’s Annual Back to School Bash. Aug. 7th
La Joya ISD is hosting its annual Back to School Bash on Friday, August 7, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This free community event aims to celebrate the start of the 2026-2027 school year and prepare students for their first day of classes. Families can enjoy live entertainment, games, and free food, while La Joya ISD will distribute backpacks with school supplies to registered students on a first-come, first-served basis. Proof of registration is required. The event will take place at La Joya ISD Pack Stadium, located at 221 N. Stadium Dr., La Joya, TX 78560.
EducationNew Chavez Head Start Campus Opens Enrollment for South Pharr Families
Enrollment is now open for the new Cesar Chavez Head Start campus in South Pharr, offering high-quality early childhood education for 3- and 4-year-olds for the 2026-2027 school year. This initiative, a collaboration between PSJA ISD and Hidalgo County Head Start, provides eligible families with free educational services and comprehensive support, including health and nutrition screenings. Principal Erika Garcia-Reyes emphasized the importance of early education in preparing children for kindergarten. Families not qualifying for Head Start can still access PSJA ISD's tuition-free Pre-K programs. Interested parents can contact the Cesar Chavez Head Start Center for more information.
EducationSTC, Donna ISD, and TCOLE Partner to Launch Historic Dual Credit Corrections Academy
South Texas College (STC), Donna Independent School District, and the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) have launched the region's first dual credit Basic County Corrections Academy. This initiative allows high school seniors to earn a County Corrections Specialist Occupational Skills Award while still in school. Up to 20 students from Donna and Donna North High School can participate, preparing them for licensing as county jailers. STC officials emphasize the program's role in creating career pathways and addressing workforce needs in Texas. Interested seniors are encouraged to contact their school counselors for more information.
EducationRio-South Texas Education & Community Development Foundation (RSTEF) Partners with The PossAble Dream Foundation
The Rio-South Texas Education & Community Development Foundation (RSTEF) has partnered with The PossAble Dream Foundation (TPDF) to enhance postsecondary education and workforce development in South Texas. RSTEF is investing $88,656 to support adults aged 18 to 50 in earning a Texas Education Agency-recognized high school diploma and industry credentials. This funding will facilitate tuition assistance, workforce training, and career support at Texas Southmost College and Texas State Technical College. Since 2019, RSTEF has allocated $11.6 million to various educational programs, aiming to improve economic conditions and quality of life in the region.
EducationGALLERY: Share your back-to-school photos with ValleyCentral
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The first day of school is coming up and ValleyCentral is asking for back-to-school pictures! Whether it is your kids or yourself heading out for class, we want you to share it with us. Teachers and college students are also more than welcome to submit pictures. Share your pictures below and