Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas – Dozens of Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) students and parents were recognized on April 24, 2026 at the 370th District Court for successfully completing the Harvard Law School Zero-L Program, a rigorous legal education course offered through a unique partnership between the PSJA ISD Sustainability Department, Harvard Law School, and Hidalgo County.
During a special recognition ceremony, participants were celebrated by district leaders as well as numerous city and county officials for their dedication and commitment to completing the six-module program, which introduces foundational legal concepts and the structure on the U.S. legal system.
The Zero-L Program, designed and taught by Harvard Law School professors, is typically reserved for incoming law students. Through this initiative, PSJA ISD participants gained access to high-level academic content that explores legal reasoning, case studies, and ethical decision making.
“I believe that every student no matter what their ability is, parents, everybody should have the opportunity to attend an Ivy League School,” said PSJA Administrator for Sustainability Mario Bracamontes. “We know they can do it, and we want to prove that is it possible.”
The program emphasized not only legal knowledge but also real-world applications, including case studies aligned with the global standards such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
“This cohort has been such a great opportunity,” said PSJA Early College High School junior, Angelina Longoria. “I’m honored to have received this certification from Harvard Law and now I am able to utilize the skills and knowledge I was taught in my everyday life.”
The cohort represented a diverse group of PSJA ISD learners, including students enrolled in Advanced Placement courses, at-risk students, students receiving special education services, and parents from the South Pharr area, highlighting the district’s commitment to equitable access to high-level educational opportunities.
“Earning this certification is very meaningful to me, in the future, I will be able to tell my daughter that I was able to do something that not a lot of people have the opportunity to do,” said Luna Diaz, a Graciela Garcia Elementary parent. “After going through this program, I was inspired to go back to school and continue my studies at South Texas College. I’m glad that this program was able to spark my interest again in learning.”
Through innovative partnerships, PSJA ISD continues to expand opportunities that prepare students and families for success in college, careers, and beyond.
