Texas Border Business
PHARR, Texas – The PossAble Dream Adult High School received a $150,000 Texas Industry Partnership Grant from the Texas Workforce Commission July 23, 2026, to expand career training opportunities for adult learners pursuing certifications in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and medical assisting.
Texas Workforce Commission Commissioner Alberto Treviño III formally presented the grant during a ceremony at the school’s Pharr campus. The funding will support training and equipment for 22 students pursuing either an HVAC certification through South Texas College or a medical assistant certification through Rio Grande Valley College.
The Texas Industry Partnership program supports collaborations among educators, employers and workforce organizations to address regional skills gaps and strengthen the pipeline of trained workers for in-demand industries.
“This grant is a prime example of what educators, employers and workforce organizations can accomplish when they work together to educate our citizens,” Commissioner Treviño said. “The students are why we are here. It is never too late to learn, and it is always important to have a PossAble Dream in mind.”
Treviño encouraged students to continue pursuing new goals beyond graduation.
“This is just the start,” he said. “Never stop asking questions. Never stop learning. Never stop striving for the next achievement.”
The funding will allow The PossAble Dream to provide students with more than a high school credential, Superintendent Darcia Cuellar said.
“We do not believe a high school diploma should be the final step,” Cuellar said. “Our students graduate with their diploma and an industry certificate in a high-wage, in-demand field that can lead to greater economic mobility.”
Cuellar said students also receive preparation in professionalism, interviewing, workplace communication and other skills needed to successfully enter and advance in the workforce.
“This grant is creating more opportunities for our students to build careers and stronger futures for themselves and their families,” she said. “We are thankful to the Texas Workforce Commission for investing in our students and supporting the work taking place at our school.”
During the ceremony, graduating senior Austyn Cantu shared how enrolling at The PossAble Dream changed the direction of his life.
“Before The PossAble Dream, I was doing odd jobs for family and friends – whatever I could to make ends meet,” Cantu said. “Now, I am graduating with the founding class in August, and I have already started taking summer classes at South Texas College.”
Cantu plans to continue his education and become an English teacher.
“I want to continue my education so I can give as much as I can back to The PossAble Dream,” he said.
Since opening in August 2025, the tuition-free public adult high school has served adults ages 18 to 50 seeking to earn their high school diploma while pursuing industry certifications in high-wage, in-demand fields. Available career pathways include healthcare, HVAC, welding, among others.
The school is designed for adults balancing their education with employment, family responsibilities and other obligations. Students may attend classes in the morning, afternoon or evening while continuing to work or care for their families.
The PossAble Dream also provides wraparound services to help adult learners remain enrolled and make progress toward graduation. Support includes transportation, childcare, advising, job placement assistance and other services aimed at removing barriers to completing their education.
Dr. Daniel P. King, founder of The PossAble Dream Foundation and president of The PossAble Dream Adult High School Board said the grant reflects the strength of the partnerships supporting the school and its students.
“We are grateful to the Texas Workforce Commission and to all of our partners who continue to support our students and help share the story of this important work,” Dr. King said. “Together, we are creating pathways that allow adults to complete their education, gain valuable workforce credentials and pursue opportunities that may once have felt out of reach.”
Adults ages 18-50 interested in enrolling may learn more by submitting an interest form at www.thepossabledream.net/interest.
Information Source: Region ONE on behalf of PossAble Dream
