McAllen ISD, MISD, school board, financial report, health insurance, bond projects, HVAC, cybersecurity, Veterans Memorial Stadium

Arnoldo Mata

McAllen TX - McAllen Independent School District closed fiscal year 2025-2026 approximately $12 million under budget, but board members raised concerns Tuesday about rising health plan costs that have reduced the district’s preliminary fund balance and could require significant changes in the coming year.

Deputy Superintendent for Business and Operations Lorena Garcia presented the final quarterly financial report for fiscal year 2025-2026 at the board’s regular meeting Oct. 6 in the Dr. Ricardo Chapa Boardroom, 2000 N. 23rd St.

Unaudited revenues for the year totaled $271.6 million, with expenditures of $302 million. The $30.3 million difference reflected planned uses of fund balance, including a maintenance tax note payoff, retention stipends, facility and technology reserves, state-funded program expenditures and $3.3 million in prior-year commitments. The preliminary total fund balance as of June 30, 2026, is estimated at $121.9 million, with the general fund unassigned balance at $101.9 million.

Those figures, however, are reduced by $3.1 million due to a large lag claims bill received from the district’s health plan fund after the numbers were posted.

“We received an unusually large bill that included services rendered as far back as January but were not billed until July,” Garcia said. “In comparison to last year, it was a very significant difference.”

Garcia said the district’s largest single health plan expenditure is currently neonatal care and that a full report, including a plan of action, will be presented at the Oct. 20 board meeting, along with a separate report on the health plan fund.

Board President Lucia Regalado acknowledged the budget performance while signaling that the health plan situation requires urgent attention.

“We really need to start looking at our health insurance,” Regalado said. “We’ve done everything we could possibly do without changing plans, but we’re getting to the point that our claims are getting too high and we can’t keep up with those claims with the amount of money that is coming in from the district and the employees. So we’re just going to have to visit those plans and see how we can adjust so that we could be able to pay those claims without using our fund balance. It’s an issue. It’s a concern going across the state and we’re all feeling the high cost of healthcare, but we’ll have more discussions and more presentations on this, especially during the budget workshops in the spring semester.”

Trustee Aaron Rivera noted the district’s overall fiscal discipline.

“What this report shows is that we are $12 million under budget from last year,” Rivera said. “I just want to thank the superintendent and Miss Garcia. That’s not easy to do, especially in this environment and all the budget pressures we’re facing.”

Trustee Roberto Haddad asked whether the late filing of claims, some dating back to January, was standard practice.

“Is that a common practice from our third-party administrator that we should try to dissuade them of in the future?” Haddad asked.

Garcia confirmed it is a common industry practice but said the dollar figure this cycle was unusually high and that a change in how the district’s auditors directed staff to forecast future expenditures also contributed to the increased liability figure.

Trustee Dr. Elizabeth Kittleman pressed on the source of the delay.

“Is it the third-party administrator delaying in presenting the claims to the plan, or is it the providers dropping the charges?” Kittleman asked.

Garcia said it could be a combination of both and committed to addressing the question in the Oct. 20 report.

Bond Projects

The board approved work authorizations for three projects funded through the district’s 2026 bond program and authorized the competitive sealed proposal process as the project delivery method for all three.

Work Authorization No. 4 with Halff Associates Inc. covers HVAC improvements at McAllen Memorial High School at an estimated construction cost of $3.5 million to $4 million. Plans will be refreshed to comply with the 2024 building code adopted by the city in January 2026. The engineering fee is approximately $175,000, with plans to go out to bid by November. Full construction is estimated to take 18 to 20 months.

Work Authorization No. 3 with Halff Associates Inc. covers a security surveillance system at James Nikki Rowe High School at an estimated construction cost of $550,000 to $600,000, with an engineering fee of $24,000.

An amendment to Work Authorization No. 3 with Chianine Engineering LLC covers exterior modifications at William B. Travis Middle School at an estimated construction cost of $40,000 to $45,000, with no additional fee.

Trustee Erica de la Garza-Lopez asked administration to walk the board through the process of using existing bond-funded engineering contracts for the projects.

Garcia explained that the district owns the plans and specifications, and that hiring different architects or engineers would result in duplicate costs. She said all three projects were on the bond list and that the bond oversight committee was informed prior to the board meeting.

Trustee Haddad raised questions about construction administration oversight, including the number of committed site visits and the project schedule for the Memorial HVAC project, where conflicting timeframes appeared in the documentation.

“There’s conflicting information where it says eight and then in parentheses five weeks,” Haddad noted, referring to the project design schedule.

Administration confirmed the engineering firm had committed to a maximum of four weeks.

Haddad also asked about the bond project public accountability dashboard.

“Once that website launches, it will be immaterial whether it’s an externally managed project or an internally managed project. It’ll be reported in the same vertical system,” administration confirmed.

Stadium Final Payment

The board approved a final payment of $120,869.20 to Helis Construction Inc. for contract No. 2026-180 covering upgrades to McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium. All punch list items have been completed.

Board members raised concerns about water ponding along the ADA access areas of the track and about protecting the new track surface during the upcoming holiday parade. Administration said staff met with the city and the platform company and that the track manufacturer has reviewed the proposed platform. Staff will be present during the parade to monitor conditions.

Cybersecurity Insurance

The board approved awarding Request for Proposal No. 2027-1013 for cybersecurity liability insurance to Frost Insurance Agency Inc. of San Antonio in the amount of $37,865.29 for a primary term of one year commencing Nov. 21, 2026, with the option to renew for three additional one-year terms. The board also authorized the superintendent to execute required applications and related documents.

Policy Updates

The board approved on second reading an update to board policy CFB Local, increasing the capitalization threshold for individual capital assets from $5,000 to $10,000.

The board also approved on second reading Texas Association of School Boards Localized Policy Manual Update 127, incorporating recent state legal and local policy changes. The motion carried 4-0 with one abstention.

Recognitions

The board recognized October as Principal Month under a proclamation by Gov. Greg Abbott and honored principals from elementary, middle and high school campuses. The board also recognized October as National Head Start Awareness Month and honored Head Start campus principals and program representatives.

Closed Session

The board recessed to closed session to discuss human resources recommendations, employee resignations and retirees, school safety and security, pending litigation and possible real estate acquisition. Upon returning to open session, the board approved human resources recommendations for the 2026-2027 school year.

Next Meeting

The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Oct. 20, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Dr. Ricardo Chapa Boardroom.

Photo above: Through a partnership with The PossAble Dream Adult High School, STC is helping adult learners gain workforce skills, earn industry-based certifications in areas such as phlebotomy, electrocardiography (EKG) and HVAC while completing their high school education. Photo courtesy of STC Communications.

Selene Rodriguez, STC Communications.

At 38, South Texas College student and recent PossAble Dream Adult High School graduate Cruselba Luna is finally pursuing a dream she has carried for years: becoming a registered nurse.

Developed with support from Region One Education Service Center, PossAble Dream is a tuition-free public adult high school serving students ages 18 to 50 who have not completed high school. The school opened last year with STC as a higher education partner, creating opportunities for students like Luna to begin workforce training while earning their high school diploma.

“Having this opportunity is something very meaningful to me,” Luna said. “Becoming a nurse has always been my dream, and now I am finally working toward it.”

Originally from Matehuala, Mexico, Luna spent years away from the classroom after coming to the United States as a child and working as a migrant worker. This summer, she earned her high school diploma through PossAble Dream while simultaneously beginning her journey into healthcare at STC.

Luna is one of 60 PossAble Dream students currently enrolled at STC through a partnership that allows adult learners to gain workforce skills, pursue industry-based certifications and build pathways into college programs and in-demand careers such as phlebotomy, electrocardiography (EKG) and HVAC while completing their high school education.

“We’re changing lives and making an important impact on the community,” said Manuel Sanchez, Region One Education Service Center college and career transition coordinator. “STC has become an important partner in creating these opportunities for our students. Through Continuing Education, they can begin earning industry-based certifications before they even graduate.”

As an STC alumnus, Sanchez said seeing students on campus makes the partnership particularly meaningful to him.

“They get to experience college life, and personally, that’s what I like the most,” he said. “For some of them, it’s been five or eight years since they were last in school. Now they’re back finishing high school, and at the same time, they’re already doing something with college. They can look at what they’ve already accomplished and say, ‘I’ve made it this far. Let me keep going.’”

Now completing the required hours for her phlebotomy training through STC, Luna plans to continue into the college’s Patient Care Technician program, with the ultimate goal of becoming a registered nurse.

“I’ve always dreamed of becoming a nurse because I enjoy helping people who need it,” she said. “I believe you need to have a kind and compassionate heart to care for others. Now that I finally have this opportunity, I want to keep going and accomplish that dream.”

Once Luna earns her phlebotomy credential, she can receive credit toward STC’s Patient Care Technician program, allowing her to build on the training she has already completed and continue toward STC’s Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program.

“We are grateful to The PossAble Dream Adult High School for asking us to partner with them to provide these educational opportunities to our community,” said STC Dean of Continuing Education and Workforce Development Olivia De La Rosa. “Giving individuals the opportunity to earn an industry-based certification while completing their high school diploma opens so many doors, from gaining employment to continuing a pathway to a certificate or associate degree. We are helping change not only their lives but those of their families.”

For Luna, the opportunity has changed what she believes is possible after years away from school, and she hopes other adults who did not complete their education will be encouraged to take the same first step.

“If I had known about this opportunity and received this type of support earlier, I might have already been working as a nurse,” she said. “But it is never too late. No matter your age, it is never too late to continue your education.”

Photo above: South Texas College has earned “Gold” status by the Veteran Education Excellence Recognition Award (VEERA) from the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC), the highest distinction available through the statewide program. TVC has established VEERA to recognize public colleges and universities that demonstrate excellence in education and services for veterans and military-connected students. Photo courtesy STC Communications.

Joey Gomez, STC Communications

McAllen TX – South Texas College has been awarded a “Gold” Veteran Education Excellence Recognition Award (VEERA) from the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC), the highest distinction available by the statewide program, for its commitment to veterans and their families.

TVC has established VEERA to recognize public colleges and universities that demonstrate excellence in education and services for veterans and military-connected students. Institutions receive gold, silver or bronze designations based on the level of support they provide.

After 11 years in the United States Army, STC Culinary Arts student Roel Vasquez returned home determined to begin a new chapter, use the benefits he had earned and show his children that it never too late to pursue a college degree.

At 41, the medically retired veteran enrolled in the Culinary program, where support from the college’s Veterans and Military Services staff helped ease his transition from military service to the classroom.

“It was a very easy transition as far as getting all my paperwork together,” Vasquez said. “I wanted to utilize my GI Bill, learn how to cook better for my family and show my kids that, at 41, you can still go back and get a degree.”

STC currently serves more than 850 veterans using education benefits across its campuses. The college’s Office of Student Veterans Affairs also supports active-duty service members, reservists, spouses and dependents through educational guidance, advocacy and assistance accessing state and federal benefits.

Javier Castaneda, STC veterans certifying official, said the gold recognition reflects work taking place throughout the college and among community partners.

“This award reflects a lot of the work going on behind the scenes to serve out military-affiliated students,” Castaneda said. “We have veterans, active-duty service members and military families, and the work that goes into serving them requires coordination across the college and partnerships with community organizations.”

To earn “Gold” status, institutions must meet at least 12 criteria, including providing a centralized location where student veterans can meet, receive assistance and access information. Criteria also includes employing veterans who can serve as points of contact, participating in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs work-study program, establishing veteran-focused admissions and enrollment policies and training employees on issues affecting military-connected students.

STC Veteran Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator Javier Guajardo said the award serves as a benchmark for the level of service STC strives to provide every year.

“Having an office designated especially for education benefits helps bridge that transition at any point in a veteran’s life,” Guajardo said. “Some may be a few years out of the service and have not decided to take that step, but we are always here to make that transition smoother.”

STC continues to expand that support through initiatives including its annual Veterans Resource Fair, which will return in November following the success of its inaugural event.

Vasquez now hopes to support other veterans through the college’s veterans affairs work-study program while continuing his culinary education.

“What good is information if we don’t pass it on,” he said. “It’s never too late to try. Use the benefits you have earned, connect with other veterans and keep moving forward.”

TVC will formally present the award to STC in the coming months.

For more information on veterans’ services at STC, visit southtexascollege.edu/veterans/.

Photo above: South Texas College’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) program celebrated Manufacturing Day at STC’s Technology Campus, connecting students with industry leaders, hands-on demonstrations and tours with local manufacturers. Students heard from Valeo Site General Manager Francois Vermeulen, who was keynote speaker at the event. Photo courtesy STC Communications.

Joey Gomez, STC Communications

McAllen TX – South Texas College is helping students like Jaden Hernandez discover a future in manufacturing close to home with its annual Manufacturing Day celebration.

A senior at Vanguard Academy, Hernandez is already taking Precision Manufacturing classes through STC’s Dual Credit Programs and joined scores of other students at Manufacturing Day to explore how their classroom training connects with careers across the Rio Grande Valley.

“I just think, overall, it’s just a great way…It’s a great introduction on what to look for in the workforce,” Hernandez said about the manufacturing event. “I think this a great look into our future.”

Hosted by STC’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) program at the Technology Campus, the event connected students like Hernandez with industry leaders through presentations, hands-on demonstrations and manufacturing facility tours.

Activities highlighted Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, 3D printing and robotics.

Erika Guerra, AMT program chair, said the celebration has been designed to help students understand both the range of products manufactured locally and the ways their skills can apply across different industries.

“This was made so they see how everything they are learning in the classroom applies to their careers once they graduate,” Guerra said. “Some of these students have never been in one of these facilities so giving them the opportunity to do this is something we take seriously.”

The connection between the classroom and the real-world was reinforced by keynote speaker Francois Vermuelen, site general manager for Valeo, who discussed the company’s $225 million manufacturing facility under construction in McAllen with plans to employ 500 people over the next several years.

Vermeulen described a highly-automated operation producing electronic components for General Motors. He emphasized that advanced equipment still requires skilled people to maintain machinery, program systems and to troubleshoot problems.

“We need people to train the robots, to calibrate them. We are counting on you,” Vermeulen said at Manufacturing Day. “I started as an intern, (but) I was very eager to learn just like you here today. Now, I have traveled from France here to the United States and see all the great opportunities available here.”

Mike Willis, executive director of the South Texas Manufacturers Association (STMA), said preparing students for these opportunities requires close coordination between employers and educators.

He highlighted STC’s technical programs and customized training, which helps current employees strengthen their skills as workplace technology changes.

“There are two main things that STMA focuses on, one of which is promoting careers in the industry and the other, developing a talent pipeline. This is where you as students fit in,” Willis said at the event. “You have to always remember to keep your skills fresh as technology changes.”

JC Ramirez, project manager for STC’s Division of Business, Public Safety and Technology said students can use that preparation to pursue technical careers locally.

Ramirez said it is also through the support of local manufacturers that STC is able to strengthen interest for industry careers through facility tours, donations of tools, equipment, time and scholarships.

“There are so many opportunities here in the Valley,” Ramirez. “I believe we are also blessed with those in manufacturing who continue to support us with donations and recommendations on how to improve the program and how to make it better.”

For Vanguard Academy student Hernandez, learning about Valeo’s upcoming facility reinforced his hope of staying in the region.

“I definitely want to do some form of manufacturing in my future career and while I am comfortable with moving out of the Valley, I would really like to stay if I can,” Hernandez said. “Valeo looks like a great job opportunity and I would love to be a part of it someday.”

For more information on STC’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology program, visit southtexascollege.edu/academics/manufacturing/

McAllen ISD, school board, bond projects, budget, Veterans Memorial Stadium, cybersecurity, HVAC, Rowe High School, Travis Middle School

Staff Report

MCALLEN TX - The McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees will consider work authorizations for three 2026 bond projects and receive a quarterly financial report when it meets Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Dr. Ricardo Chapa Board Room at the Administration Building, 2000 North 23rd Street, McAllen.

Bond Projects

The board will consider approving work authorizations for three projects tied to the 2026 bond program: HVAC improvements at McAllen Memorial High School, a surveillance system upgrade at James “Nikki” Rowe High School, and exterior modifications at William B. Travis Middle School. Trustees will also be asked to approve the project delivery method for each. The items were submitted by Deputy Superintendent for Business and Operations Lorena Garcia.

Financial Report

The board will receive a financial report covering the quarter of April through June 2026. The report was also submitted by Garcia.

Veterans Memorial Stadium

Trustees will consider approving final payment to Hellas Construction Inc. on Contract No. 2026-180 for upgrades to McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Cybersecurity Insurance

The board will consider Request for Proposal 2027-1013 for cybersecurity liability insurance.

Policy Second Readings

Trustees will take up two policy items on second reading: Board Policy CFB (LOCAL) on Accounting Inventories and Capitalization Threshold, and Texas Association of School Boards Localized Policy Manual Update 127. Both items were submitted by Chief Human Resources Officer Dr. Albert Canales.

Consent Agenda

The board will also consider a sponsorship agreement with Wing Daddy’s and a request for proposal covering catering, entertainment, field trips, fundraising, food, restaurants, rentals, retail and other related products and services.

Recognitions

The meeting will open with recognition of Governor Greg Abbott’s proclamation designating October 2026 as Principals’ Month and recognition of National Head Start Awareness Month.

Closed Session

The board is scheduled to recess into closed session to discuss personnel recommendations, employee resignations and retirements for the 2026-2027 school year, school safety and security, pending and potential litigation, and a possible real estate acquisition.

The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Oct. 20, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.

Source - McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees Regular Meeting Agenda, October 6, 2026

Photo above: UTRGV and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives unveil a ceremonial $5 million grant check on Thursday. The funding will support EMPOWER-RGV, a UTRGV-led initiative designed to provide hands-on workforce training and technical assistance to small manufacturers across the Rio Grande Valley. (UTRGV Photo by Christopher Cabello)

By UTRGV News and Media Relations

Edinburg TX – The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is one of 11 organizations nationwide to receive a $5 million federal grant aimed at strengthening the Rio Grande Valley’s manufacturing sector by helping small manufacturers build a skilled workforce, adopt new technologies and expand their operations.

The grant, awarded through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Manufacturing in America Empower to Grow (E2G) Grant Initiative, was formally presented to UTRGV on Thursday during a special presentation recognizing the federal investment in the university and the region’s growing manufacturing sector.

William Briggs, deputy administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, attended the presentation and said he looks forward to seeing the initiative spur growth and help build a strong workforce pipeline in the Rio Grande Valley.

“To the manufacturers, small business owners, workers, doers and innovators, thank you for what you do,” he said. “To the students and manufacturing leaders of tomorrow, many of whom I’ve had the opportunity to meet, America’s economic future will be shaped by your skills, your work ethic and your willingness to build.”

The funding will support EMPOWER-RGV – short for Elevating Manufacturing through AI-Driven Practical-Oriented Workforce Education and Regional Growth in the Rio Grande Valley – an initiative led by the UTRGV Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (IAM) that will provide hands-on training and technical assistance to small manufacturers across the Valley.

Dr. Magdalena Hinojosa, UTRGV executive vice president for Strategic Initiatives and Student Affairs and deputy to the president, said the initiative is expected to serve at least 50 manufacturers, train 250 employees, award 200 industry-recognized credentials and help create 50 manufacturing jobs while supporting the retention of another 250 jobs.

The investment comes as South Texas continues to attract growth in aerospace and defense, energy, automation technology, shipbuilding and advanced manufacturing, industries that depend on a skilled workforce and strong local suppliers.

“UTRGV is uniquely positioned to connect our people and businesses with the expertise, equipment, training and technical assistance they need to take advantage of those opportunities,” Hinojosa said. “As the Valley’s university, that is an important part of our responsibility to this region.”

ELEVATING THE WORKFORCE

Recent industry engagement by UTRGV’s Institute for Advanced Manufacturing and regional workforce partners indicates that technological advances are outpacing the region’s existing training infrastructure.

Dr. Jianzhi “James” Li, principal investigator for EMPOWER-RGV and founding director of IAM, said manufacturing is about more than creating products; it creates skilled jobs, supports businesses throughout the supply chain and drives innovation.

“When we invest in advanced manufacturing, we are investing not only in factories and equipment, but in people, communities and America’s ability to compete,” he said.

Photo above: U.S. Small Business Administration Deputy Administrator William “Bill” Briggs speaks Thursday during a presentation at UTRGV recognizing a $5 million federal investment to strengthen the Rio Grande Valley’s manufacturing sector through workforce training, technology adoption and support for small manufacturers. (UTRGV Photo by Christopher Cabello)

As part of EMPOWER-RGV, UTRGV will establish a regional Manufacturing Hub and Small Business Launchpad through IAM. The hub will combine hands-on workforce training, AI-driven manufacturing and technology commercialization to support regional economic growth.

The initiative will provide training for UTRGV students, current workers, veterans and job seekers in areas including advanced manufacturing, robotics and automation, artificial intelligence, additive manufacturing and digital manufacturing technologies.

Regional businesses also will have opportunities to explore AI-enabled manufacturing technologies, including machine learning, digital twins and intelligent automation, designed to improve productivity, quality and efficiency.

EMPOWER-RGV will build on more than $10 million previously invested in UTRGV workforce, research and innovation facilities.

“For decades, one of our greatest challenges has been creating enough high-quality career opportunities for our young people here at home. Today, that picture is changing,” Li said. “Billions of dollars are being invested in aerospace, shipbuilding, energy, semiconductor and advanced manufacturing operations across South Texas.”

EMPOWER-RGV also will provide technology incubation, commercialization and consulting services to help entrepreneurs, startups and small manufacturers develop products, improve operations, pursue federal and commercial contracts and connect with larger manufacturers, investors, workforce organizations and technology providers.

The project team includes Li and co-principal investigators Ron Garza, UTRGV senior associate vice president for Workforce and Economic Development; David Ortiz, representing the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center; and Dr. Mostafa Malki, IAM associate director.

Li said the goal is not simply to attract large companies to the Valley, but to build the workforce, local businesses, suppliers and technological capabilities needed to ensure more economic activity benefits the region.

The initiative is supported by strategic partners including America Makes, the ARM Institute, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, America’s Additive Foundry Consortium, Siemens, Rockwell Automation, EOS, TMAC, COSTEP and Workforce Solutions.

“We are not simply training people for today’s jobs,” Li said. “We are building the industrial workforce and manufacturing ecosystem that can support the Rio Grande Valley for the next generation.”

To learn more about the UTRGV Institute for Advanced Manufacturing, visit www.utrgv.edu/iam.

Photo above: Pictured are Ron Garza, UTRGV senior associate vice president for Workforce and Economic Development; William “Bill” Briggs, U.S. Small Business Administration deputy administrator; and Dr. Jianzhi “James” Li, principal investigator for EMPOWER-RGV and founding director of the UTRGV Institute for Advanced Manufacturing. UTRGV is one of 11 organizations nationwide selected to receive funding through the U.S. Small Business Administratio

McAllen ISD, Bond Program, Project Management, $335 Million Bond, RGV Construction, School Construction

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees convened a special work session Monday, Sept. 28, 2026, to interview eight firms competing to manage the district’s $335 million bond program. After hours of presentations and board questioning, trustees ranked Brownstone Consultants, a McAllen-based company, first and voted 7-0 to authorize the superintendent to negotiate a contract with them.

The Bond Program

The $335 million bond program is organized around five investment areas: approximately $118 million for modernization and alignment; $103 million for capital improvements including HVAC replacements at nine campuses; $40 million for wellness, safety, and security; $39 million for district equity and growth; and $35 million for fine arts and multipurpose facilities. Projects span 16 campuses and include CTE expansions at the high schools, cafeteria modernizations, gymnasium construction, districtwide roofing, paving, and LED upgrades.

Scoring and Rankings

Firms were evaluated on a 1,000-point scale. The board allocated 150 points for the interview portion, with the remaining 850 points scored by district administration in advance.

Final combined rankings were: 1. Brownstone Consultants, 930 points; 2. B to Z Engineering, 898; 3. Project Control of Texas, 878; 4. Presidio LLC, 867; 5. Coming Management Group Inc., 821; 6. Project Management Services Inc., 777; 7. SDI Engineering LLC, 675; 8. RGV Renovations LLC, 661.

The Firms

B to Z Engineering presented as a team of four Rio Grande Valley-based firms: B to Z as the local program lead, alongside Bruss, Kitchell, and Desado Public Relations. B to Z described itself as the largest engineering and construction management firm in South Texas, employing more than 160 people statewide with 95 in the McAllen area. The team highlighted management of Edinburg CISD’s $112 million bond program, completed on time and under budget. During questioning, a board member pressed the team on accountability within the partnership. “Who’s going to have the final say and who’s ultimately going to be accountable to the district in the event of a problem?” B to Z responded that it was the prime lead and that each firm had a defined lane with minimal overlap in roles and responsibilities.

Brownstone Consultants, founded in 2019 and headquartered in McAllen, partnered with AGCM for the proposal. The team included architect Gilbert Gayos, a 38-year registered architect who led bond programs at South Texas College, Texas Southmost College, UT Brownsville, Edinburg CISD, and Houston ISD, citing more than $70 million in savings generated on regional programs. Brownstone proposed a prototype-based design strategy to standardize improvements across campuses. When asked how savings are calculated, the team said every dollar under budget — through procurement strategy, negotiated change orders, or returned contingency — is documented in a running savings log reviewed with district staff and the board. “We’re going to try to give you the biggest bang for your buck,” a team member said.

Coming Management Group Inc. presented as an international firm of approximately 3,000 employees ranked 12th globally among project management firms by Engineering News-Record. Vice President Oscar Schiavone noted he had worked on McAllen ISD’s 2006 bond program as a project manager. The team proposed using Procore as its program management system at no additional cost. Trustees questioned whether the firm’s key personnel would be working other projects simultaneously. “Will they be working on any other projects during the period of our project?” a board member asked. The firm acknowledged one team leader would carry responsibilities across programs but said local staff would be on site daily.

Presidio LLC, founded in 2017 and K-12 focused, cited approximately $8.5 billion in Texas program management experience and a 100% repeat-client rate. Executive Vice President Brian Dodson, a former school board member, told the board the firm’s approach centers on partnership. “We don’t come in and say this is how you need to do something,” Dodson said. “We say, tell me some of the best recommendations and let’s partner in this together.” Trustees asked how the firm, not based in the Rio Grande Valley, would tailor its execution to McAllen’s needs. Presidio committed to permanent staff on site.

Project Control of Texas, in business since 1977 with a McAllen office since 1991, said it had completed $250 million in capital projects in the Rio Grande Valley since 2019. Principal Frank Aguillon called the bond program “a generational investment” that would affect “many families and members of the community for many years to come.” Trustees asked whether its two key personnel assigned to McAllen ISD would also be working other active projects. The firm confirmed both would have some allocation to other work.

Project Management Services Inc. (PMSI) presented as a firm with more than 20 years of owner-representation experience, a 90% client return rate, and more than $3 billion in bond project management work. PMSI proposed serving as the sole prime contractor, offering McAllen ISD one accountable team across all program phases from planning through warranty.

RGV Renovations LLC was represented by owner Josh Zurbaran, who outlined his 24-year construction career including work on PSJA schools in the Rio Grande Valley. Survan described his firm as locally rooted and familiar with active-campus construction in South Texas.

SDI Engineering LLC was represented by principal and owner Isael Posadas, who described 16 years as on-call engineer for Edinburg CISD and service on the Edinburg EDC board and bond oversight committee.

Board Action

Following presentations and a brief recess for score tabulation, district administration presented the combined rankings. Trustee Robert Carreon moved to rank the eight firms and authorize the superintendent to negotiate a contract with the highest-ranked firm, Brownstone Consultants. If negotiations fail, staff is directed to proceed to the next highest-ranked firm until a contract is reached. The motion was seconded by Trustee Erica de la Garza-Lopez and passed 7-0.

Arnoldo Mata

McAllen TX - The McAllen ISD Board of Trustees held a special meeting Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2026, to receive a detailed presentation on the district’s 2026-2027 teaching and learning framework, with an extended discussion centered on declining math scores, inconsistent curriculum use, and the district’s plan to improve student outcomes through a high-impact tutoring framework.

Associate Superintendent for Instructional Leadership Janet Niño delivered the presentation alongside the district’s curriculum and professional development teams. Superintendent Dr. René Gutiérrez was also present.

Accountability Results

The district earned an overall score of 89 and a letter grade of A on the 2026 Texas Education Agency accountability ratings. Niño noted the district is appealing that rating but offered no further information on the grounds for the appeal.

Elementary domain scores showed mixed results. Student achievement earned an 82, a letter grade of B. Academic growth fell six points to a 78, a letter grade of C. Relative performance rose one point to an 86, a letter grade of B. Closing the gaps declined eight points.

In a three-year comparison of campus ratings, five campuses earned an A in 2026, down from eight in 2025. Ten campuses earned a B, two earned a C, and one earned a D. The district is also appealing the D-rated campus’s score, which registered a 72, seeking recognition of it as a C. The campus was not identified by name during the meeting.

Eight elementary campuses dropped a letter grade year-over-year. Closing the gaps fell from 91 to 87, and academic growth stood at 79.

Math Scores Draw Sharpest Scrutiny

The sharpest board discussion centered on seventh grade math, where the district’s approaches rate fell from 69% to 53%, a 16-point drop, while meets declined 13 points and masters declined 5 points. By comparison, the statewide drop in seventh grade approaches was 4%.

Trustee Roberto Haddad put the numbers in human terms.

“Three out of every five eighth graders that we interact with in this community are not prepared for math right now,” Haddad said. “That is a major challenge for us, and one that should keep us all up at night.”

He noted that of approximately 1,369 students who took the seventh grade STAAR test, 876 did not meet grade level.

Niño explained that part of the decline is attributable to the acceleration pathway required under Senate Bill 2124, which removes high-achieving students from grade-level testing cohorts, skewing the denominator downward. Under the law, fifth graders who score at the meets level or in the top 40% are automatically enrolled in an accelerated math pathway, compressing sixth and seventh grade math into a single year so students can take Algebra One by eighth grade.

Trustee Carreon pressed Niño on the history of inconsistent math curriculum implementation, noting that students in second through fifth grades spent approximately nine years using the Sharon Wells math program, which is not a state-approved high-quality instructional material.

“What drove the variability in our curriculum implementation?” Carreon asked. “You started the presentation by noting consistency, alignment, fidelity, and this tells a fairly radically different story.”

Niño acknowledged the variability, attributing it in part to teachers seeking more scripted, procedural delivery tools. Gutiérrez added that Sharon Wells will not be used as a primary curriculum but may be made available as supplemental material at teacher request, noting that the district’s new adopted resource, Savas by Pearson, is the same company that writes the STAAR test.

Trustee Peña raised concern about the cumulative demands on teachers.

“I see just a ton of enrichment, a ton of resources, a ton of training, all of this going into everybody who touches the lives of our kids every day,” Peña said. “But yet our numbers are not telling that same story.”

Trustee Kittleman called for surveys of principals and teachers to capture qualitative feedback on what is working and what is not, and urged the team to do a deeper systematic analysis of why declines are occurring.

“All elementary campuses got the same schedule, but results went in opposite directions,” Kittleman noted, pointing out that some campuses rose significantly while others fell sharply under the same conditions.

Board President Lucia Regalado questioned how often the district’s instructional team is meeting collectively and how frequently campuses receive visits. Niño said high-performing campuses are visited once every six weeks, while higher-needs campuses receive visits two to three times per week.

Trustee Rivera raised a parent-level concern about the acceleration pathway, describing her own family’s experience of arriving at schedule pickup to find her eighth grader already enrolled in Algebra One with little opportunity to discuss the placement.

“It’s such a needed true understanding of it because then you get to geometry and I know because my geometry teacher was my oldest tutor and she would tell me he gets it, he’s just making algebra one mistakes,” Rivera said, noting the downstream consequences of acceleration decisions made without sufficient parent engagement.

Niño encouraged parents to initiate conversations with campus principals about placement, acknowledging the timing of STAAR results in mid-June creates challenges for pre-registration decisions.

High-Impact Tutoring Framework

Niño presented the district’s primary intervention response: a high-impact tutoring framework launched district-wide on the first day of school across all 18 elementary campuses and now being extended to secondary. The framework is built around seven key principles from the Texas Education Agency and is embedded in the district’s existing reteach and enrich block, which runs 45 minutes daily for all students.

Trustee Carreon asked when eighth grade students who did not meet grade level could expect to receive remediation services through the framework. Niño confirmed high-impact tutoring launched at the secondary level on day one and committed to providing campus-specific details.

Trustee Peña asked whether she could visit a classroom the following week and observe the framework in practice. Niño confirmed it is occurring daily and offered to provide campus schedules.

Board Requests

The board made several specific requests for follow-up information:

• A report on the overall quality of instructional interventions, teacher survey results, and measured impact on student achievement from professional learning activities, requested by Trustee Carreon

• Access to district and campus action plans already prepared and stored on OneDrive, requested by Trustee Kittleman

• Department-level action plans addressing specific declines, confirmed as ready by Niño

• Campus-level surveys of principals and teachers to capture qualitative feedback on curriculum changes and school day adjustments, requested by Trustee Kittleman

Board President Regalado noted that several questions submitted in advance of the meeting were not fully addressed and requested follow-up in pre-meeting preparation sessions.

“My hope was that we were working towards that plan over the last two months,” Regalado said. “I’m a little bit disappointed to not have a plan because I don’t know how to guide. What we can control is the resources, and I was hoping that we would have that ask from y’all today.”

McAllen, McAllen ISD, Board of Trustees, Teacher Incentive Allotment, School Library Advisory Council

Staff Report

McAllen TX - Four McAllen ISD teachers addressed the Board of Trustees during public comment at the Sept. 22 meeting, raising concerns about the district’s administration of the state’s Teacher Incentive Allotment program, which they said altered student growth targets after results were already known, lowering their standing under the program.

Public Comments on Teacher Incentive Allotment

Jorge Herrera, a biology teacher at Marquez, said the state’s Teacher Incentive Allotment, or TIA, program measures teacher observations and student growth to identify highly effective teachers and generate additional state funding. Herrera said the district’s TIA department informed teachers in August, after the school year’s data had already been collected, that new growth targets had been established using undisclosed data and committee decisions. Herrera said his own data showed 100% of his students met or exceeded expected growth, but that percentage dropped to approximately 44% under the district’s revised targets. “How can the district’s success... be celebrated when the district changes our goals, effectively altering our results to now show that we’re insufficient?” Herrera said, citing statewide data showing only 0.04% of biology STAAR test-takers earn a perfect score. Herrera asked the district to use the original targets established before results were known, and to allow teachers to opt out of the TIA program.

Mariana de los Santos, a Spanish teacher at the IB program at Lamar Academy, said her assessment showed 100% of her students met or exceeded their growth targets, but that her reported growth dropped to 33% after the district changed targets to require the majority of students to reach the highest possible rating on a five-point scale. “The growth is real,” de los Santos said. “I would like to propose that our true data be submitted and that we challenge the state to verify it.”

A third teacher, identified as Angelese Johnson, said 92% of her students met growth targets she had set, but that the district’s revised calculation reduced that figure to 33%. Johnson said the new district-created targets require nearly 90% of students to demonstrate “well above typical” growth. “The data you created conveys your teachers’ inability to set feasible goals and ineffective instructional practices,” Johnson said. “Is that a true reflection of the quality of your educators?”

Juan Osuna, an English teacher at Lamar Academy’s IB program, said 52% of his students were required to earn a perfect score on the English I STAAR exam in order to demonstrate growth under the district’s calculation, despite many of his students already scoring well on their beginning-of-year assessment. Osuna cited state data showing only 13% of students statewide earn the “masters” designation on STAAR exams. Osuna said 65% of his students earned the masters designation this year, the highest rate of his career, but that his calculated TIA growth rate was only 15%, compared to an estimated 88% growth rate using a simple before-and-after comparison. “I ask, if possible, to again reconsider how growth is measured as part of our TIA,” Osuna said.

Proclamations

The board recognized Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s proclamation declaring October 2026 as Dyslexia Awareness Month, read by Trustee Sofia Peña, and recognized students, teachers and principals from five elementary campuses.

The board also adopted its own proclamation declaring October 2026 as Down Syndrome Awareness Month, recognizing students, teachers and special education staff from multiple campuses across the district.

School Library Advisory Council Report

Drew Lentz, chair of the district’s School Library Advisory Council, presented an annual report on the council’s activities. Lentz said the council recommended more than 800 new library titles last year and an additional 1,165 titles this month, and adopted a policy against bulk removal or addition of books, instead reviewing titles individually.

Lentz noted that McAllen ISD is one of approximately 43 school districts statewide, and one of two in South Texas, with an active library advisory council under state Senate Bill 14. He referenced recent statements by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick proposing that districts’ accountability ratings could be affected by library holdings. “If the state asks McAllen ISD what it’s doing about its libraries, the answer isn’t a promise or a guess. It’s a record,” Lentz said.

Lentz asked the board to appoint replacement voting and non-voting council members before the council’s term ends Dec. 11, to formally affirm the district’s existing library policy exhibit, and encouraged trustees to personally tour school libraries. The board approved the appointment of a new voting council member following the presentation.

Policy and Personnel Items

The board approved an update to board policy BJCF (Local), governing superintendent nonrenewal, recommended by the Texas Association of School Boards to bring the district into compliance with Senate Bill 12 ahead of a Sept. 30 deadline.

The board reviewed, on first reading, proposed updates to board policy CFB (Local), which would raise the district’s capital asset classification threshold from $5,000 to $10,000, and a broader Texas Association of School Boards localized policy manual update.

The board approved a required Senate Bill 12 compliance certification regarding annual reporting and trustee information requirements.

The board approved the 2026-2027 list of certified Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System appraisers, adding four newly certified administrators.

The board approved the recommendation of Christian Quintanilla as associate superintendent for instructional services for the 2026-2027 school year, following closed session.

Other Business

The board received an update confirming completion of a parking lot project at Dorothea Brown Middle School funded through a City of McAllen Community Development Block Grant, with an administrative extension needed only to align contract dates between the city and the district.

The board approved minutes from its Sept. 8 regular meeting and its standard consent agenda.

Following closed session, the board approved human resources recommendations for the 2026-2027 school year. No action was taken regarding school safety and security, pending litigation, or real estate acquisition.

Scheduled Meetings

The board scheduled special meetings for Sept. 23 at 5 p.m. and Sept. 28 at noon, and its next regular meeting for Oct. 6 at 5:30 p.m., all in the Dr. J.A. Gonzalez Chapa Boardroom of the Administration Building.

Photo above: UTRGV School of Medicine graduates reported educational debt well below national medical school benchmarks. The school is making medical education more accessible and affordable for aspiring physicians in the Rio Grande Valley. (UTRGV Photo by Heriberto Perez-Zuniga)

By Saira Cabrera, UTRGV Communications

Edinburg TX – For generations of aspiring physicians in the Rio Grande Valley, becoming a doctor could mean leaving home to pursue the dream. The UTRGV School of Medicine was created to change that, bringing the path to a medical career closer to the students and communities it was built to serve.

Now, new data shows UTRGV is helping make that path financially attainable, too. Medical graduates from the 2025-26 academic year reported a mean educational debt of $152,015 and a median debt of $128,044, substantially below national benchmarks for medical schools, including public institutions.

ACCESS THAT STARTS HERE

Nationally, the mean debt among medical school graduates was $227,514, compared with $210,147 among graduates of public medical schools. UTRGV’s mean was $58,132 below the national public-school average.

The difference is even more pronounced at the median: UTRGV graduates carried $128,044 in debt, compared with $200,000 for graduates of public medical schools, nearly $72,000 less.

“These numbers tell a story about opportunity,” said Dr. Everardo Cobos, dean of the UTRGV School of Medicine. “We were created to give talented students from the Rio Grande Valley a pathway to medicine without requiring them to leave the communities they call home.

“Graduating with less debt gives them greater freedom to choose their specialty and where they will practice based on their interests, sense of purpose and the needs of their communities, not solely on the financial pressure of repaying educational debt.”

The data was compiled by the School of Medicine’s Office of Student Affairs Financial Aid team and benchmarked against national data from the Association of American Medical Colleges.

For Dr. Berkley Browne-Holtz, senior associate dean of Student Affairs and Admissions, the numbers reflect the school’s commitment to making medical education accessible to the students it was created to serve.

“Making medical education accessible means understanding the students we serve and the communities they come from,” Browne-Holtz said. “Our goal is to help students reach the white coat while creating a strong foundation for the careers that follow.”

A comparison of mean and median educational debt among UTRGV School of Medicine graduates and national medical school benchmarks for the 2025-26 academic year. UTRGV graduates reported substantially lower educational debt than national public- and private-school benchmarks. (Source: UTRGV SOM institutional data and AAMC Medical School Graduation Questionnaire)

GREATER FREEDOM TO SERVE

The effects of educational debt can extend well beyond graduation. A more manageable financial burden may give new physicians greater flexibility to pursue lower-compensated specialties, including primary care, and to practice in rural or underserved communities rather than feeling compelled to prioritize higher-paying opportunities in larger cities.

For South Texas, where physician shortages persist across many specialties and communities, that freedom can have a lasting effect on access to care.

A PATHWAY HOME

Since opening in 2016, the School of Medicine has graduated more than 300 physicians and trained hundreds of residents and fellows. Its graduates are helping build the physician workforce South Texas needs, with many remaining in the region to practice.

That connection between where students come from, where they train and where they ultimately serve is at the heart of UTRGV’s mission.

“This is what it means to be The Valley’s University,” UTRGV President Guy Bailey said. “We created the UTRGV School of Medicine to expand opportunity, improve health care and serve the people of the Rio Grande Valley. Seeing our medical students graduate with substantially lower debt than national benchmarks shows that we are delivering on that promise.

“We are giving talented students the opportunity to become physicians without placing an overwhelming financial burden on their future, giving them greater freedom to pursue the specialties and communities where their skills are needed most. That benefits not only our graduates but the communities they will serve for generations to come.”

To learn more about the UTRGV School of Medicine, visit www.utrgv.edu/school-of-medicine.

McAllen, UTRGV, Zoho Corporation, From The Ground Up, Artificial Intelligence

Staff Report

Edinburg TX - A team from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has been named a finalist in Zoho Corporation’s first-ever AI hackathon, “From The Ground Up,” which challenges college students to design AI solutions addressing wildfire risk, water scarcity and agricultural instability in rural communities across California and Texas.

Team Dos Ojos, made up of UTRGV students and brothers Edgar Bello Gonzalez and Eduardo Bello Gonzalez, is developing an AI-driven crop-stress monitoring tool focused on agricultural sustainability. The tool pairs free Sentinel-2 satellite imagery with targeted drone flights to give small Rio Grande Valley farmers simple, bilingual text message guidance on where to direct scarce irrigation water during drought conditions, according to Zoho.

The brothers grew up in Mexico, where they experienced stretches without water that affected local harvests and farmers’ livelihoods, according to the company. Since relocating to the Rio Grande Valley, they said they have noticed similar recurring droughts and intend to use their engineering education to help their new community.

Team Dos Ojos is one of five finalist teams selected from a competition open to students at a preselected list of rural and rural-serving universities in California and Texas. The other finalist teams come from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (two teams), Austin Community College-Round Rock, and East Texas A&M University.

Teams of up to three students were asked to design an AI system or suite of lightweight, interoperable AI tools addressing wildfire risk, water scarcity or agricultural instability, with an emphasis on empowering rural communities without displacing local expertise, draining resources, or extracting data. Submission guidelines emphasized community sovereignty, appropriate scale, interoperability between environmental systems, equity of access, and honest accounting of the environmental footprint of the AI tools themselves.

Raju Vegesna, Zoho’s chief evangelist, said the competition reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to rural innovation. “For decades, one of Zoho’s guiding principles was the belief that world-class software can be built from anywhere, including rural communities,” Vegesna said. “It’s the reason why we’ve had an office in a rural village in Tenkasi, India for over a decade, and why we continue to discover new talent in Texas’s Rio Grande Valley.”

The five finalist teams will receive mentorship from Zoho leaders and travel support to present a prototype and pitch deck to a panel of industry judges at a finalist event at Zoho’s office in Pleasanton, California, on Tuesday, Sept. 22. The winning team will receive a $15,000 prize.

Members of the public are encouraged to vote for their favorite finalist team, with public votes counting toward a portion of each team’s overall score. Voting is open through Sept. 22 at 9 a.m. Pacific time at zoho.to/ftgu-vote.

Zoho has an expanding presence in the Rio Grande Valley. The company purchased the historic Echo Hotel property in Edinburg in April 2025, with plans to redevelop the site into a modern office campus, and has acquired approximately 1,050 acres north of Edinburg for a broader technology campus. Zoho’s global headquarters is in Chennai, India, with its U.S. headquarters in Austin.

Source - Zoho Corporation

McAllen, McAllen ISD, Board of Trustees, Tax Rate, Superintendent Evaluation, Dyslexia Awareness

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 4:30 p.m., a regular meeting Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 5:30 p.m., and a second special meeting Wednesday, Sept. 23, at 5 p.m.

Special Meeting, Sept. 22, 4:30 p.m.

The board will convene in closed session to hold a Level III grievance hearing for Edward Wylie, followed by reconvening in open session to take action on the matter.

Regular Meeting, Sept. 22, 5:30 p.m.

Proclamations

The board will recognize a proclamation from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott regarding Dyslexia Awareness Month, and will discuss and consider adopting a proclamation regarding Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

Consent Agenda

The board will consider a request for proposal for Career and Technology Education instructional supplies, materials, equipment and related services; a request for proposal for building and maintenance materials, supplies and equipment; a memorandum of understanding with Web-Centric Alternative Certification Program/eTools4Education, LLC for a clinical teaching practicum experience; and discussion and possible action on the superintendent’s summative evaluation.

Human Resources

The board will discuss and consider action on board policy BJCF (Local), covering superintendent nonrenewal; discuss, on first reading, board policy CFB (Local), covering accounting inventories and capitalization threshold; discuss, on first reading, an update to the district’s Texas Association of School Boards localized policy manual; discuss and consider action regarding Senate Bill 12 compliance, covering annual certification submission and trustee information requirements; and consider approval of the 2026-2027 list of certified Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System appraisers.

Business and Operations

The board will receive a report on enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year, a quarterly investment report for the period of April 1 through June 30, 2026, and an annual investment report for the period of July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.

The board will discuss an extension of a City of McAllen Community Development Block Grant funding agreement for a community parking lot at Dorothea Brown Middle School, and will consider the district’s August budget amendment for the current fiscal year.

The board will consider approval and adoption of a resolution setting the district’s 2026 property tax rate.

Board of Trustees

The board will consider approval of minutes from the Sept. 8 regular board meeting.

Closed Session

The board will meet in closed session to discuss human resources recommendations for the 2026-2027 school year, employee resignations and retirements, a recommendation for associate superintendent of instructional services, school safety and security, pending or potential litigation, and possible real estate acquisition.

Open Session

Following closed session, the board will consider action on items discussed, including human resources recommendations and the recommendation for associate superintendent of instructional services.

Special Meeting, Sept. 23, 5 p.m.

The board will discuss the 2026-2027 McAllen ISD Teaching and Learning Framework with staff supports for improving student outcomes.

Scheduled Meetings

The board scheduled an additional special meeting for Sept. 28 at noon and its next regular meeting for Oct. 6 at 5:30 p.m., both in the Dr. Ricardo Chapa Board Room of the Administration Building. No agenda has been posted for either meeting, yet.

Source - McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees Agendas, Sept. 22-23, 2026

Photo Caption: For 55 years, STC faculty member Sylvia Sandoval has dedicated her life to nursing, from championing women’s health and witnessing the miracle of birth to shaping generations of nurses. Photo courtesy STC Communications

Selene Rodriguez, STC Communications

For 55 years, South Texas College faculty member Sylvia Sandoval has dedicated her life to nursing, from championing women’s health and witnessing the miracle of birth to shaping generations of nurses.

After 25 years in the classroom at STC, Sandoval retires, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond the college through the nurses she has helped prepare to care for communities across the Rio Grande Valley.

“For the longest time, the hospital was my life. Witnessing the miracle of life was amazing every time,” she said. “But then, education became my life. The impact STC has on our region, and our healthcare is unbelievable.”

A San Juan native, Sandoval, 79, once dreamed of joining the Peace Corps. But shortly after high school, while working for Dr. Ramiro Casso, namesake of STC’s Dr. Ramiro R. Casso Health Science Professions campus, she began assisting with patients and was introduced to the world of obstetrics.

“It was there that I witnessed my first birth. There was just this joy in seeing a baby being born and the love that came with it,” she said. “That’s when I knew I wanted to be a nurse. I wanted to take care of women and help them through that experience.”

In 1969, determined to become a registered nurse at a time when no nursing program was available close to home, Sandoval began taking classes at the former Pan American College, now University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). When a nursing program opened the following year, she became one of its first students.

Through the Rio Grande Medical Association, Sandoval was offered the opportunity to have her nursing education fully funded in exchange for committing to one year at, then, McAllen General Hospital. She became a registered nurse around 1971 and ultimately turned that one-year commitment into a 30-year career at the hospital.

“I signed for one year and ended up being there for 30. I loved it too much,” she said. “Nursing is such an art. The most important thing is loving, caring for people and having that selflessness. If you don’t have that as a nurse, you’re missing something.”

Throughout her career, Sandoval rose from a staff nurse to charge nurse and eventually director of labor and delivery. In1982, she earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Corpus Christi State University, now Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

Sandoval later considered pursuing midwifery, but ultimately continued her education, earning her master’s degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and becoming a perinatal nurse practitioner.

“I have always loved learning. I wish I were 23 again so I could learn even more,” she said. “Now that I’m retiring, I’m considering taking classes. I want to learn about AI, maybe take an abstract painting class. There’s always something new to learn.”

That love for learning would eventually lead Sandoval to a second career as an educator. In 2001, just one month after retiring from the hospital, Sandoval received a call from STC asking if she would help teach nursing students. Once again, she agreed to stay for just one year. And once again, the story repeated itself.

“I said I was only going to work here for one year, and I stayed 25,” she said. “I loved being a nurse, but I realized I could make a bigger impact through my students. Throughout these years, I’ve been in the hospital and had my former students taking care of me, I’ve experienced firsthand just how capable and excellent our students are.”

As an educator, Sandoval sought to pass along more than the clinical knowledge she had gained throughout her career. She wanted her students to understand the compassion and human connection she believes are just as essential to nursing.

“Can we teach caring? Yes,” she said. “STC does a great job at it. But we must have the right tools, and the student needs to have that passion. Caring has always been the most important part of being a nurse.”

Over the next 25 years, Sandoval would see the results of those lessons come full circle in more ways than one. Former students became nurses throughout the region, and some eventually returned to STC as educators.

Among them is STC Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) faculty member Melinda Tellez, who first met Sandoval as a student in 2011.

Tellez remembers Sandoval bringing lessons to life through stories from her years as an obstetric nurse and demonstrating the importance of advocating for patients. More than a decade later, in 2023, Tellez joined STC as a faculty member.

“From the very beginning, she encouraged me in my new role as an educator,” Tellez said. “She strengthened my confidence as a student, and years later as her colleague. She is the kind of inspiration people look to when they ask, ‘How long can I keep doing this?’ The answer, one would hope, is as long as Ms. Sandoval.”

After 25 years at STC, saying goodbye to the classroom and the people who have become part of Sandoval’s life may be the hardest part of retirement. As she steps away, she hopes the program will continue opening doors for future generations and opportunities she remembers were not always available in the Rio Grande Valley.

“My wish is that this program will continue to evolve and touch lives,” she said. “I want us to educate more people in our community about women’s health and help make life better for the next generation.”

And after 55 years, Sandoval is not entirely convinced she can leave nursing behind. A mother of two and grandmother of one, she is looking forward to spending more time with family, gardening, exploring abstract painting and continuing to learn.

Looking back on a career that began with witnessing her first birth and ultimately led her to teach generations of nurses, Sandoval can sum up those 55 years in just three words.

“Birth. Life. Teaching,” she said. “I’ve had a great career and had fun at the same time.”

For more information on STC’s Nursing programs, visit nah.southtexascollege.edu/.

McAllen, McAllen ISD, Board of Trustees, Teen Dating Violence, Self-Funded Health Plan, Tax Collections

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees met Sept. 8, hearing student presentations on teen dating violence and suicide awareness, approving changes to the district’s self-funded health plan, and receiving a report on annual tax collections.

Public Comments

Four students, representing the organization Young Hearts Matter, addressed the board on the connection between teen dating violence and suicide awareness among teenagers.

One student said the conversation around suicide prevention often overlooks contributing factors such as relationship violence. “Teen dating violence needs to be a part of this conversation in McAllen ISD,” the student said, “because the more students that understand what unhealthy relationships look like and how they can affect their mental health, they are able to recognize when someone they know or themselves might need help.”

Another student, a senior at IB at Lamar Academy, cited data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention linking teen dating violence to higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. “In 2023, 40% of U.S. high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness and or hopelessness, and one in five seriously considered attempting suicide,” the student said. “Abuse can add another layer to that burden.”

A third student cited CDC data indicating roughly one in three teens experience some form of dating abuse, including emotional, physical or digital abuse, before graduating high school.

A fourth student urged the district to increase awareness and access to resources. “Suicide prevention must begin before a crisis,” the student said. “By increasing awareness and making support easier to find, McAllen ISD can help students feel seen, supported, and safe.”

Board President Lucia Regalado thanked the students for their initiative, noting that several board members had previewed a related curriculum developed at IB.

Annual Tax Collections Report

A representative from the finance office presented the district’s annual tax collection report for the period of July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. The report showed total collections of $85,380,448, including $83,650,581 in base tax collections, $1,230,463 in penalties and interest, and $449,428 in attorney fees.

The presenter said the district’s current tax levy has declined in recent years, from $97 million to $94 million to $89 million and now to $87 million, attributing the decline largely to increased homestead exemption applications. Current-year collections were $81.55 million compared to $86.21 million the previous year, a difference of about $4.7 million. The collection rate was 96.18% for the year, compared to 96.69% the previous year.

In response to a question from a board member, the presenter confirmed that lost local revenue from homestead exemptions is generally offset by the state through the school finance system on the maintenance and operations side, though not on the interest and sinking side.

Self-Funded Health Plan Review

Karina Perez, director of employee benefits and risk management, presented a review of the district’s self-funded health plan performance for fiscal year 2025-26. Perez said the district experienced a $2.6 million shortfall for the year after accounting for available fund transfers, driven largely by higher-than-expected medical claims, including $818,000 in emergency room claims and more than $3 million across 16 high-cost claims.

Perez said the district plans to change its emergency room coverage policy so that non-emergent ER visits will no longer be covered, while true emergencies will remain fully covered. Perez said some employees have been using emergency rooms for non-emergent care, such as flu shots or minor issues, in part because certain facilities have waived co-pays for those visits.

Perez also presented a proposal to convert the district’s basic health plan into an HMO structure, requiring employees to select a primary care physician and obtain referrals for specialists, while offering a PPO buy-up plan option with broader network access at an additional cost. Perez said rates for the basic plan would not change under the conversion.

A representative from Valley Risk Consulting said an analysis conducted by United Healthcare found that its HMO networks are largely comparable to the district’s current provider network, with the exception of the Mayo Clinic, which would not be included in the HMO network.

A board member raised concerns about a 35% administrative fee charged by United Healthcare on out-of-network emergency room claims, noting the carrier paid approximately $300,000 in allowed claims but charged the district roughly $900,000 in fees, compared to a $770,000 fee charged by the district’s previous carrier, Blue Cross Blue Shield, on $12.7 million in claims over a comparable period. “I think that is egregious,” the board member said, adding that Valley Risk Consulting should have prevented that fee structure from being included in the district’s contract. Perez confirmed that United Healthcare will no longer charge the fee beginning in August going forward for the remainder of the plan year.

Policy Updates

The board approved, on second reading, an update to board policy CH (Local), increasing the purchasing authority threshold for single purchases from $50,000 to $100,000, and clarifying language regarding change orders and procurement review requirements.

The board also approved, on second reading, an update to board policy DGBA (Local), covering employee complaints and grievances, clarifying timelines for document submission ahead of Level Three hearings and requiring that hearings be recorded and retained in accordance with the district’s records management program.

Central Kitchen Upgrades

The board approved, in three separate motions, the ranking and selection of a general contractor for central kitchen upgrades under competitive sealed proposal No. 2027-1015; authorization for administration to begin contract negotiations with the highest-ranked contractor, with authority to proceed to subsequent contractors if negotiations are unsuccessful; and authorization for the superintendent to execute a contract in accordance with state law once negotiations are completed.

Bond Project Management Services Tabled

The board discussed a request for qualifications for bond project management services, for which eight firms submitted qualification statements. Administration had planned to ask the board to approve preliminary rankings before conducting board interviews, worth 150 of 1,000 total possible points. Board members questioned the need to approve preliminary rankings before interviews were conducted, and ultimately agreed to interview all eight firms rather than narrowing the list. Members also discussed extending the proposed interview format from 15 minutes of presentation and 10 minutes of questions to 15 minutes and 20 minutes, respectively. The board voted to table the item, with plans to schedule firm interviews before the end of the month.

Consent Agenda and Other Action Items

The board approved its consent agenda, along with the 2026-2027 list of certified Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System appraisers and meeting minutes from the Aug. 25 regular meeting.

Closed Session

Following closed session, the board approved human resources recommendations for the 2026-2027 school year, and approved the appointment of Amy Nunez as director of college/career/counseling and Dr. Maria Acosta as executive director of special education services for the 2026-2027 school year. The board took no action regarding the superintendent’s summative evaluation. No items were reported regarding school safety and security or pending litigation.

Scheduled Meetings

The board scheduled a special board meeting for Sept. 22 at 4:30 p.m., a regular meeting for Sept. 22 at 5:30 p.m., and a special board meeting for Sept. 23 at 5:30 p.m., all in the Dr. J.A. Gonzalez Chapa Boardroom of the Administration Building.

Source - McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees Regular Meeting, Sept. 8, 2026

By UTRGV News and Media Relations

Edinburg TX – The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has earned a 4.5 out of five-star rating in Money’s 2026 Best Colleges, recognizing the university for its educational quality, affordability and student outcomes.

Money evaluated more than 2,400 four-year public and private nonprofit colleges nationwide. UTRGV was among 735 institutions that met the publication’s requirements for inclusion. Only about 10% of the institutions on Money’s 2026 Best Colleges list received a rating of 4.5 stars or higher, placing UTRGV among the highest-rated colleges in the nation. Forty-two institutions received the publication’s highest rating of five stars.

“Earning a 4.5-star rating from Money reflects UTRGV’s commitment to providing students with a high-quality education that remains within reach for families across the Rio Grande Valley,” UTRGV President Guy Bailey said. “Our focus has always been on creating opportunity, supporting students through graduation and preparing them to build successful futures without taking on overwhelming debt.”

Other Texas public universities receiving a 4.5-star rating included Texas A&M University, The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas at Dallas and the University of North Texas at Dallas.

Rather than assigning each institution a numerical rank, Money uses a five-star rating system to help students and families compare colleges based on educational quality, affordability and student outcomes.

A STRONG VALUE FOR STUDENTS

In its UTRGV profile, Money highlighted the university’s low costs and extensive financial assistance, saying students receive “some serious bang for their buck.”

For the 2026–27 academic year, Money estimates UTRGV’s full cost of attendance for an in-state student at $26,260. After average financial aid, that estimated price falls nearly 79% to $5,570, the lowest among Texas institutions on the list. For students from low-income households, the estimated average price drops even further, to $3,785.

According to Money, 93% of UTRGV undergraduates receive grants and 98% receive need-based grants. UTRGV meets an average of 72% of students demonstrated financial need, while graduates leave with a median student debt of $12,950.

The publication also highlighted UTRGV Tuition Advantage, which covers tuition and mandatory fees for eligible students with family incomes of $125,000 or less who have unmet financial need.

Published in June, Money’s 2026 Best Colleges list evaluates institutions using 25 measures, including graduation rates, outcomes for Pell Grant recipients, access to faculty, the amount families pay after financial aid, student debt and alumni earnings.

The findings draw on data from the U.S. Department of Education and Peterson’s, along with Money/Witlytic calculations. Estimated 2026–27 prices are based on the latest available federal data and adjusted for inflation.

To view UTRGV’s complete profile, visit Money.com.

McAllen, McAllen ISD, Board of Trustees, Health Plan, Board Policy, Superintendent Evaluation

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting Tuesday, Sept. 8, at 5:30 p.m., in the Dr. Ricardo Chapa Board Room of the Administration Building, 2000 North 23rd Street.

Consent Agenda

The board will consider a request for proposal for library books, audiovisual supplies and equipment, software and related products and services; an agreement for Data Management for Assessment and Curriculum software licensing; a memorandum of understanding for a clinical teaching practicum experience with Web-Centric Alternative Certification Program/eTools4Education, LLC; a memorandum of understanding with Gingerbread House Learning Center LLC, doing business as Valley Kidz Academy, for community-based prekindergarten services; a request for proposal covering catering, entertainment, field trips, fundraising, food, restaurants and rentals; and a memorandum of agreement with Region One Education Service Center for the Texas Student Data System Public Education Information Management System cooperative.

Human Resources

The board will receive a report on a self-funded health plan review from Chief Human Resources Officer Dr. Albert Canales, and will consider approval of the 2026-2027 list of certified Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System appraisers.

The board will consider second readings of three board policy updates: Policy CH (Local), covering purchasing and acquisition authority; Policy CV (Local), covering facilities construction; and Policy DGBA (Local), covering employee complaints and grievances.

Business and Operations

The board will receive a report on annual tax collections for the period of July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, from Deputy Superintendent for Business and Operations Lorena Garcia.

The board will consider a competitive sealed proposal for central kitchen upgrades and a request for qualifications for bond project management services.

Board of Trustees

The board will consider approval of minutes from the Aug. 25 regular meeting.

Closed Session

The board will meet in closed session to discuss human resources recommendations for the 2026-2027 school year, employee resignations and retirements for both the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years, recommendations for the director of college/career/counseling and the executive director of special education services for 2026-2027, the superintendent’s summative evaluation, school safety and security, pending or potential litigation, and possible real estate acquisition.

Open Session

Following closed session, the board will consider action on items discussed, including human resources recommendations, the college/career/counseling director and special education executive director recommendations, and the superintendent’s summative evaluation.

Scheduled Meetings

The board scheduled a special board meeting for Sept. 22 at 4:30 p.m., a regular meeting for Sept. 22 at 5:30 p.m., and a special board meeting for Sept. 23 at 5:30 p.m., all in the Dr. Ricardo Chapa Board Room.

Source - McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees Agenda

By UTRGV News and Media Relations

Edinburg TX – For the fourth consecutive year, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has been ranked No. 1 in Texas by Washington Monthly, while earning the No. 4 spot nationally in the magazine’s 2026 “Best Colleges for Your Tuition (and Tax) Dollars” ranking — recognition of universities that deliver exceptional value for students and the public.

Unlike rankings built largely around prestige, selectivity or institutional wealth, Washington Monthly evaluates how effectively universities create opportunity and contribute to the public good through access, affordability, student outcomes and public service.

The magazine’s methodology considers whom universities serve, what students actually pay, how much debt graduates carry, whether students graduate and achieve strong economic outcomes, and how institutions contribute to their communities and the country.

For UTRGV President Guy Bailey, the recognition reflects the impact of a university built for and shaped by the Rio Grande Valley.

“UTRGV is the Valley’s university, and this recognition belongs to the entire Rio Grande Valley,” Bailey said. “Our students and families deserve access to an exceptional education without having to leave home or take on overwhelming debt. Being ranked No. 1 in Texas for four consecutive years is a powerful reflection of what this university and this region are accomplishing together.”

AMONG THE NATION’S LEADERS IN VALUE AND IMPACT

UTRGV’s No. 4 national ranking places the university among the country’s highest-rated institutions under a methodology centered on educational value, opportunity, student success and service.

The recognition is particularly significant for a university that opened its doors just 11 years ago. Since then, UTRGV has focused on expanding access to higher education while keeping the cost of attendance low and creating pathways to meaningful careers for students throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

That combination is central to what Washington Monthly measures. Rather than asking primarily how selective, wealthy or well-known an institution is, the ranking examines what universities deliver for the students they serve and the public that supports them.

For UTRGV, the result is a national recognition built around a straightforward measure of impact: Who gets an opportunity, what does that opportunity cost and what happens because of it?

FOUR CONSECUTIVE YEARS AT NO. 1 IN TEXAS

UTRGV first earned Washington Monthly’s No. 1 ranking among Texas universities in 2023 and has held the top spot every year since.

The four-year run comes during a period of significant growth for the university, including the expansion of academic programs, research, healthcare education and services, and student opportunities across the Rio Grande Valley.

UTRGV is the only university in the United States with schools of Medicine, Podiatric Medicine and Optometry. The university also launched the Rio Grande Valley’s first Division I football program last year, with its inaugural season contributing to an estimated $144.3 million in economic output through construction, operations and game-day activity.

“We continue to create new opportunities for our students while protecting the affordability that makes those opportunities possible,” Bailey said. “Our responsibility is to ensure that students in the Rio Grande Valley have access to an education and experiences that can compete with those available anywhere in the country. That is what it means to be the Valley’s university, and it is central to our mission as The Future of Texas.”

2026 RANKINGS HIGHLIGHTS

UTRGV’s performance extended beyond its No. 4 overall national ranking.

Among public universities nationally, UTRGV ranked:

• No. 2 overall

• No. 2 Best Four-Year Hispanic-Serving College; fellow Rio Grande Valley institution South Texas College ranked No. 6 among Two-Year Hispanic-Serving Colleges

• No. 6 in number of Pell Grant recipients

• No. 11 in number of Pell Grant graduates

• No. 12 for lowest graduate student debt

Among Texas public universities, UTRGV ranked:

• No. 1 overall

• No. 1 in number of Pell Grant recipients

• No. 1 in Pell recruitment

• No. 1 in number of Pell Grant graduates

• No. 1 for lowest graduate student debt

• No. 2 for lowest net price

Together, the measures help explain UTRGV’s performance in the ranking: The university enrolls large numbers of students with significant financial need, keeps the cost of earning a degree comparatively low and helps students progress toward graduation and economic opportunity.

WHAT WASHINGTON MONTHLY MEASURES

Since 2005, Washington Monthly has ranked colleges according to their contributions to the country, offering an alternative to college rankings that place greater emphasis on selectivity, institutional resources and reputation.

Its 2026 “Best Colleges for Your Tuition (and Tax) Dollars” ranking evaluates institutions across four broad areas:

• Access: Measures how effectively universities provide opportunities to students from lower- and middle-income families. Among its measures, Washington Monthly considers Pell Grant enrollment and compares it with the number of Pell recipients an institution might be expected to enroll based on factors including admissions profiles and statewide family income.

• Affordability: Examines the net price paid by students from families earning less than $75,000 after financial aid, along with the amount of debt graduates carry.

• Outcomes: Measures academic and financial results, including graduation rates, differences in graduation rates between higher- and lower-income students, graduates’ early-career earnings compared with their peers, and the number of graduates who go on to earn doctoral degrees.

• Service: Assesses universities’ contributions to public service through measures including AmeriCorps, Peace Corps and ROTC participation; enrollment in service-oriented fields; and efforts to encourage voting and civic participation.

Taken together, those measures look beyond who a university admits or the resources it possesses. They examine how broadly it creates opportunity, how affordable that opportunity is, what students achieve and how the institution contributes to the public good.

To view the complete Washington Monthly 2026 College Guide and Rankings, click here. To learn more about UTRGV’s latest rankings, visit www.utrgv.edu/rankings/.

Photo Caption: The South Texas College JagReconnect Program, through the Office of Student Reengagement is celebrating its first-year successes, and the more than 450 students the program has helped return to college since its inception. Photo courtesy STC Communications.

Amanda Sotelo, STC Communications

The South Texas College JagReconnect Program, through the Office of Student Reengagement is celebrating its first-year successes, and the more than 450 students the program has helped return to college since its inception.

JagReconnect, also known as STC’s Adult Promise Program, is a last-dollar match program that helps qualified students who paused their education and are now returning, cover tuition, pay off outstanding STC debt and receive personalized guidance from college navigators.

“Over the past year, JagReconnect has achieved significant success, earning strong support across the STC community, while attracting attention from organizations and foundations beyond our region,” said Luisa Ramirez, director of Student Engagement and Completion Services. “Through this program, hundreds of students have returned to continue and complete their educational goals and more than 65% of students in JagReconnect have persisted in their studies successfully completing their credential.”

Ramirez describes this success as a reflection of the impact the program’s personalized outreach, coaching, mentoring and support has on students. It also is a testament to the dedication and support from college administrators, trustees, donors and community partners who are deeply invested in student success.

“I have always had faith that this program would be successful for our students,” she said. “What I did not anticipate was how quickly we would begin hearing life-changing stories of those we serve. Together, our collaborative efforts help students overcome obstacles, remain engaged in their educational journey and achieve their goal of earning a credential.”

One of those students, who said his experience with the JagReconnect program has been transformative, is also an STC faculty member – Cosmetology Lecturer Juan Gallardo.

Gallardo first enrolled at STC during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and since then had been taking one class at a time. However, when he began working with the Cosmetology program, he met JagReconnect staff during their beauty service appointments at the Cosmetology program’s training salon, who inspired him to finish his degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.

“The staff at JagReconnect really showed me the way. Now I’m set to graduate in May, and I have my sights set on a new goal – a bachelor’s degree from STC,” he said. “Without the support of JagReconnect, I don’t think I would be where I am today. In addition to financial assistance, their wraparound support has given me the confidence I need to continue, especially as an older student.”

The 47-year-old recalls his first day of class and being the only one with a pencil and a notebook, while everyone else had laptop computers. He said he remembers feeling out of place, even realizing he was older than the instructor, but JagReconnect took those fears away.

“I want to say thank you to JagReconnect,” he said. “They made returning manageable and made me feel like family. They’ve allowed me to become an example for my students. If I can do it, so can they. I understand their challenges, and I want them to know I’m always here for them, just like JagReconnect has been there for me.”

Student successes like this are being made possible by grants targeting adult learners and have caught the attention of foundations such as the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board which has donated more than $400,000, the Trellis Foundation that has donated $200,000 and the Rio-South Texas Education and Community Development Foundation that has given more than $100,000 for scholarships.

According to Ramirez, there are more than 30,000 students like Gallardo in the Rio Grande Valley who have earned some college credit, but have not completed a credential. Many have left college due to financial, personal, family or work-related challenges, yet remain close to achieving a degree or certificate that can significantly improve their careers and quality of life.

“Our students are truly resilient. Choosing to return to school after being away for several years requires tremendous courage and determination,” said Ramirez. “As the program has grown, one of the clearest signs of its success has been the number of students who refer friends, family and colleagues to our office. Seeing our own students advocate for JagReconnect means they have trust in the program and and it’s a reflection of the positive impact it has had on their educational journey.”

Most recently, Ramirez and the JagReconnect team have hosted Jaguar Junction events on campus to help students connect, enjoy some lunch and snacks and prepare for life after graduation with resumés and headshots.

“The impact of JagReconnect extends far beyond the classroom and graduation,” she said. “We meet students where they are and address their unique needs that help create pathways to completion, career advancement and long-term success. We increase workforce readiness, strengthen earning potential and create pathways for upward economic mobility. These outcomes not only benefit our students and their families, but it also contributes to the continued growth and prosperity of our region.”

McAllen, McAllen ISD, Board of Trustees, Bond Sale, Deaf Awareness Month, School Safety Grant

Arnoldo Mata

McAllen TX - The McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees met Aug. 25, receiving a report on the district’s recent bond sale, tabling a proposed update to its facilities construction policy, and approving human resources recommendations for the 2026-2027 school year. There were no public comments at the meeting.

Deaf Awareness Month

The board adopted a proclamation declaring September 2026 as Deaf Awareness Month, recognizing students and staff from the district’s Regional Day School Program for the Deaf. Board President Lucia Regalado read the proclamation, which stated the purpose of Deaf Awareness Month is to raise awareness of the issues and culture of people who are deaf and hard of hearing, and to promote equal access to information, educational programs and services. The proclamation was approved 7-0.

Bond Sale Report

Representatives from Estrada Hinojosa, the district’s financial advisor, and Samco Capital, the senior underwriter, presented details of the sale of the district’s Unlimited Tax School Building Bond Series 2026. Voters approved a $335 million bond program on May 2, 2026, to modernize campuses, expand programs and enhance safety and security. The board authorized issuance of the bonds June 23, and the bonds were priced Aug. 11.

According to the presentation, the district borrowed $96,205,000, but received a premium of $4.7 million, for a total of $100,938,445 received, with $100 million deposited into the district’s construction fund. The bonds carry a true interest cost of 4.587%, with a final maturity date of February 2056.

Andrew Kim, with Samco Capital, said the bond offering was oversubscribed across all maturities, allowing the district to reduce yields by two to six basis points in various maturities. “That shows the level of strength of interest of those investors that are out there in looking for school district bonds,” Kim said. Kim noted that timing played a role in the results, saying, “Certainly, your FA in terms of structuring the school district folks in terms of meticulous details and the pricing calls, and certainly delivered a good value to the school district.” Kim said Samco Capital retained $2.11 million in unsold balances in its own accounts. Top purchasers of the bonds included Vanguard, Wasmer Schroeder & Company, PGIM Incorporated and Fidelity Investments.

Estrada Hinojosa representative De Los Santos said the district’s standalone bond rating is Aa2, calling it “a very strong rating,” and noted he was unaware of another school district in the region holding that rating level. De Los Santos said the rating, combined with the Texas Education Agency’s Permanent School Fund guarantee, allowed the district to go into the bond market with a AAA rating, the highest available.

A second Samco Capital representative, referred to in the discussion as continuing the bond presentation, credited the district’s finance staff and superintendent for the strong rating outcome: “The team really did really well for y’all. They represented you very well, and again, it was a good rating.”

Kim said the district plans to structure future bond sales to maintain its current overall tax rate of 93.22 cents, with an estimated $235 million remaining to be issued in a future series anticipated in spring 2027. He said the approach is designed to avoid exceeding the district’s tax rate. “We’re trying to do this in a methodical way, and in a way that you can get your projects done in a timely manner,” Kim said. “We couldn’t do all 300 in one shot in one year, right? So we’re trying to space this out, maintain the tax rate.”

In response to a question from a trustee about a projected decrease in the interest and sinking tax rate in 2028 and beyond, De Los Santos said, “Eventually, that total tax rate will be at about 18 cents once all the bonds are sold. But that 18 cents will be balanced out with your compression M&O side going down.”

Facilities Construction Policy Tabled

The board discussed a proposed second-reading update to board policy CV, Local Facilities Construction, which would raise the threshold requiring board approval for construction contracts and change orders from $50,000 to $100,000, aligning with a related purchasing policy also under consideration.

One trustee raised concern about language in the policy suggesting the board could waive requirements when change orders increase a contract’s value by more than 25%, saying, “I just didn’t want to adopt a policy that is trying to say that it trumps the law.” The trustee proposed alternative language stating that “if a proposed change order individually or cumulatively would increase the original contract amount by more than 25 percent, the district shall obtain legal and procurement review before authorizing the additional work,” and that “the board may not waive a requirement imposed by statute, regulation, grant, condition, or other controlling law.”

Chief Human Resources Officer Albert Canales confirmed change orders come to the board for approval regardless of dollar amount. Another trustee noted that in practice, change orders are rare because the district’s facilities director builds a roughly 10% contingency into construction budgets, but said the board had not previously dealt with a bond program of this size and supported tabling the item for further review. The board voted to table the policy for further review of the proposed language.

Other Business

The board approved a list of certified Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System appraisers for the 2026-2027 school year, and an affiliation agreement with Angelo State University for a clinical teaching practicum program. Canales said the appraiser list allows certified administrators to “go in and start observing our teachers.”

The board also received a report on the district’s intention to apply for a fiscal year 2026 COPS School Violence Prevention Program grant through the U.S. Department of Justice. A district police representative, identified in the discussion as Chief Williams, said the district applied for approximately $625,000, including a required 25% local match, to fund security cameras across the district. The grant, if awarded, would cover a three-year period, with a funding decision expected within about a month and a half.

The board received an update on a Texas Association of School Boards staffing review currently underway, examining staffing practices across instructional, administrative and support roles districtwide. Canales said the review has already begun with surveys sent to coordinators, principals and administrative teams, with an on-site portion to follow. “We’re hoping to have this completed by the end of September, and come back to the board in October with the study results,” Canales said.

Closed Session

The board went into closed session to discuss human resources recommendations, employee resignations and retirements, school safety and security, pending litigation, and possible real estate acquisition. Upon returning to open session, the board approved human resources recommendations for the 2026-2027 school year by a vote of 5-0. No action was taken on the remaining closed session items; regarding pending or potential litigation, legal counsel reported there was “not a new report.”

The board scheduled its next regular meetings for Sept. 8 and Sept. 22, 2026, both at 5:30 p.m. in the Dr. J.A. Gonzalez Chapa Boardroom of the Administration Building. The meeting adjourned at 6:56 p.m.

McAllen, McAllen Public Library, Tutor.com, Free Tutoring, Back to School, K-12, Education

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen Public Library is offering free online tutoring through Tutor.com as the school year gets underway.

The service covers K-12 grade and higher education, with more than 250 subjects available. Tutors are available from noon to midnight.

A McAllen Public Library card is required to access the service.

Source - McAllen Public Library