Texas Border Business
PHARR, Texas – Committed to providing opportunities for ALL, Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) is expanding its transformative partnership with its longtime partner South Texas College by now offering numerous continuing education for parents at its new PSJA Elvis Ballew Learning Center in Pharr opening this August 2024.
At the PSJA Elvis Ballew Learning Center, parents of PSJA ISD students can sign up to earn Industry Certifications in high-demand fields offered in partnership with South Texas College. Industry certifications are recognized by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and/or industry groups.
“At PSJA ISD, we really mean it when we say we offer opportunities for all, and this expansion is a testament to that commitment,” said PSJA ISD Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias. “We are grateful to expand our partnership with South Texas College to offer continuing education for our parents. Together, we are not only investing in the future of our students but also empowering our parents to achieve their own educational and career goals.”
These programs are designed to help meet today’s workforce demand while empowering parents and students to advance their education, develop new skills, and improve their quality of life. In addition to the programs, participants can receive valuable guidance and support in areas such as FAFSA/TASFA applications, scholarship and grant applications – all in one convenient location.
“Our partnership with PSJA has brought numerous transformative opportunities to our region and this new center is going to expand on that,” said STC President Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D. “From dual credit to continuing education, by working together we are changing lives, and I congratulate them on the opening of the PSJA Elvis Ballew Learning Center. Here we will continue to empower students, their parents, and our communities toward brighter futures.”
Industry Certifications Programs available in partnership with STC:
- Phlebotomy Technician (Est. Annual Salary $30,000 to $37,000)
- Welding Technician (Est. Annual Salary $34,000 to $46,000)
- Electrical Technician (Annual Salary $37,000 to $52,000)
- Forklift Operator (Est. Annual Salary $31,000 to $41,000)
- Commercial Driver License (CDL) (Est. Annual Salary $37,000 to $50,000)
- Community Health Worker (Est. Annual Salary $31,000 to $43,000)
These salary estimates are based on general data from various sources including the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition to these certification programs, the PSJA Elvis Ballew Learning Center will offer other classes through the Parental Engagement Program, including English as a Second Language (ESL), Food Handler License and Substitute Teacher Certification.
The opportunities are open to PSJA ISD parents and students. PSJA ISD welcomes families living anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley.
Parents interested in taking advantage of these continuing education opportunities can learn more and enroll by visiting the PSJA Elvis Ballew Learning Center or by calling 956-354-2520.
Enrollment is open now and classes will begin September 23, 2024. For more information about the PSJA Elvis Ballew Learning Center and the programs available, families can visit www.psjaisd.us/ballew
