Texas Border Business
MERCEDES, Texas – South Texas Independent School District (STISD) announced its selection as a CTE District of Distinction by the Career and Technical Association of Texas (CTAT). This esteemed recognition celebrates districts across Texas that demonstrate exemplary leadership, innovation, and commitment to student success through high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.
The CTE District of Distinction program, launched by CTAT, highlights districts that excel in workforce readiness, foster innovation in CTE, and inspire others through their dedication to student achievement and community impact. Honored districts serve as models of excellence, showcasing best practices and driving progress in CTE statewide.
Superintendent Dr. Marco Antonio Lara, Jr., expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Earning the title of CTE District of Distinction affirms South Texas ISD’s role as a pioneer in Career and Technical Education in our region. For decades, CTE has been at the heart of our district, and we have remained committed to ensuring those opportunities are available to every student. This recognition reflects the dedication of our educators and the strength of programs designed to equip students with real-world skills for a rapidly evolving workforce.”
About the CTE District of Distinction Program
The CTE District of Distinction program was designed to celebrate outstanding career and technical education programs across Texas. Honored districts are selected based on their ability to meet rigorous criteria that include innovative programming, industry-based certifications, alignment with workforce needs, and exceptional student outcomes.
Why This Matters
As a CTE District of Distinction, STISD is not only celebrating its own achievements but also setting a benchmark for excellence in CTE statewide. This designation opens doors to new opportunities for collaboration with educational and workforce development leaders, further advancing the district’s mission of preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving economy.
CTE Leadership at STISD
STISD’s Career and Technical Education programs are grounded in innovation, workforce alignment, and a strong commitment to student success.
For the 2025–2026 school year, STISD offers 21 Programs of Study across 10 Career Clusters, giving students a competitive edge in high-demand fields.
Through more than 115 industry partnerships district wide, students gain valuable real-world experience while the district continues refining its programs to ensure classroom learning reflects current workforce needs.
STISD also expands access through its Career & Technical Education (CTE) Half-Day Program. Designed for students with special needs, the program allows students to take most academic courses at their home high schools while attending an STISD campus for three CTE courses and one core academic class. Like all STISD CTE pathways, the Half-Day Program emphasizes hands-on learning in authentic work environments, helping students develop technical expertise, confidence, and marketable workforce skills.
Additionally, through the STISD Tri-County Consortium, the district partners with school systems in Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy counties to broaden CTE opportunities for students across the region.
