Texas Border Business
MISSION, Texas – District leaders, educators, and representatives from higher education institutions across the nation, including from states like Maryland, Massachusetts, and Indiana, gathered at the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) College for All Conference, held from October 22-24, 2024. This marks the first return of the conference since 2019, with a focus on exploring innovative educational initiatives aimed at fostering student success.
PSJA ISD Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias welcomed attendees to the PSJA College for All Conference, sharing impactful words about the work done over the years to ensure students are provided opportunities for their overall academic success.
“We come together not only as champions for education but as firm believers in the transformative power that starts with each student we reach,” said Dr. Elias. “At PSJA ISD, our mission is clear, to dramatically increase college completion rates within our community. We’re proud to offer a wall-to-wall early college program in partnership with South Texas College, ensuring every student has equal access to this opportunity. At PSJA, when we say opportunities for all, we truly mean all.”
The conference provided a valuable platform for attendees and PSJA staff to collaborate and share ideas that benefit all students. Participants listened to PSJA ISD district leaders as they presented a wide range of student-centered programs, including Early College, Dual Language, Pathways to Independence, the College, Career and Technology Academy, and others, all of which embody the district’s mission to provide “Opportunities for All.”
PSJA ISD Executive Officer for College Readiness Dr. Linda Uribe Treviño attributed student success to the visionary leadership of superintendent, Dr. Alejandro Elias. “The collaboration, adaptability, and strong partnerships fuel our efforts. We are deeply committed to equity, ensuring that all students, regardless of background or learning needs, receive the support they need to succeed.”
With over 30 breakout sessions offered across seven conference tracks, it gave attendees valuable insights and best practices for transforming communities and fostering college readiness for all students.
In the Early College Program session, attendees explored strategies to ensure college success for all students. Discussions included integrating real-world knowledge by incorporating sustainability into the curriculum, offering guidance to help students earn their high school diploma, and connecting them with post-secondary options.
Rachel Amstutz, Policy Director for Blueprint for Maryland’ Future Accountability & Implementation Board emphasized the collaborative effort needed to achieve their goals, stating, “What we’re taking away from this conference is the belief that it truly takes everyone to succeed. Families need to understand what’s happening, politicians must be involved, advocates and school personnel all play a role. Now, it’s about putting it into action and making it work for Maryland.”
The district’s comprehensive and innovative approach, along with its proven success, has attracted attention from high-ranking officials from the U.S. Department of Education, the Texas Education Agency, as well as other local, state, and national agencies. National leaders have also highlighted PSJA ISD’s solutions to addressing the dropout crisis and preparing students to be college ready.
“Remember that the work we do is about more than policy and practice—it is about hope. It is about providing every student, regardless of their background, the chance to become the best version of themselves,” said Dr. Elias. “With every diploma and degree earned, we are not just celebrating an academic victory; we are witnessing the transformation of a life, a family, and ultimately, a community. We hope you take this inspiration back to your own districts to make a meaningful difference.”
PSJA ISD is an open enrollment school district serving over 30,000 students. The district welcomes students living anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley. For more information on the PSJA College for All Conference www.psjaisd.us/collegeforall.
