Texas Border Busienss
PHARR, Texas — Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) is celebrating a historic showing at the 2026 UIL Academic State Championship after two of its high schools earned Top 5 finishes in Conference 5A, solidifying PSJA ISD as one of the premier academic districts in Texas.
PSJA Southwest Early College High School (ECHS) was named the UIL Academic State Runner-Up in Conference 5A, earning an impressive 120 total points to finish second in the entire state. Meanwhile, PSJA North Early College High School secured a 5th place state finish with 97 points.
The UIL Academic State Championship combines points earned across multiple highly competitive events, including Academic contests, Theatrical Design, Film, and One Act Play, making the recognition one of the highest honors in Texas scholastic competition.
Having two schools ranked among the Top 5 academic programs in Texas marks a major milestone for PSJA ISD and highlights the district’s growing reputation for academic excellence, student achievement, and college readiness.
“During our time at state, we accomplished something truly special by becoming state runner-up,” said PSJA Southwest ECHS student Fernanda Macias. “This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of every student involved and the countless hours they committed throughout the process.”
District leaders praised the collective efforts of students, teachers, academic coaches, administrators, and families whose commitment helped propel both campuses to statewide recognition.
“These results reflect the hard work, dedication, and discipline demonstrated by our students and staff,” said PSJA ISD Advanced Academics Director Michael Murray Carreon. “We are incredibly proud of PSJA Southwest and PSJA North for representing our district with excellence at the state level and continuing to raise the standard for academic achievement.”
The UIL Academic State Championship is considered one of the most prestigious academic competitions in Texas, bringing together the state’s top-performing students to compete in rigorous intellectual and creative events.
District officials credit the success to the rigorous academic opportunities available throughout PSJA ISD, including advanced coursework, early college programs, fine arts integration, and a districtwide culture focused on excellence and student success.
PSJA ISD extends its congratulations to all students, coaches, teachers, and administrators from PSJA Southwest ECHS and PSJA North ECHS for their outstanding representation and continued pursuit of excellence on the state stage.
