
Texas Border Business
PHARR, Texas – For the seventh consecutive year, Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA IAD) has earned 1st Place in the Large School District Category of the statewide Healthier Texas Competition, formerly known as It’s Time Texas.
The Healthier Texas Community Challenge is a collaborative, annual statewide competition designed to promote healthy habits by encouraging school districts, communities, businesses, and families to prioritize health and wellness. This year’s challenge ran from January 13 through March 9, 2025, and brought together thousands of Texans with one common goal, to make healthier choices and build stronger, more vibrant communities.
Through the collective efforts of students, staff, and families, PSJA ISD once again led the way, logging millions of points through physical activity, healthy eating, hydration, and community engagement. From walking clubs and water challenges to outdoor events and district-wide wellness initiatives, the PSJA Family came together to prove that health is a shared responsibility.
“Winning the Healthier Texas Challenge for the seventh straight year is a true reflection of our district’s culture of wellness and unity,” said PSJA Superintendent of Schools Dr. Alejandro Elias. “We thank every student, parent, staff member, and community partner who made this possible. Together, we continue to lead by example and inspire healthy living across our region.”
Additionally, PSJA ISD hosted its 7th Annual PSJA Healthy Schools sub-challenge to further promote the competition at the campus level. All PSJA schools contributed to the district’s success, with three schools earning top honors for accumulating the most points in their category:
• Aida C. Escobar Elementary – 1,895,125 points (2nd consecutive win)
• Audie Murphy Middle School – 2,262,575 points (6th consecutive win)
• PSJA Collegiate School of Health Professions – 605,600 points (3rd consecutive win)