South Texas ISD receives more than US$332,000 to train students

TEXAS – The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has awarded to South Texas ISD a $332,500 Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant, which will allow the district to purchase and install 20 new industry-specific welding stations to initially serve 40 students.

Upon completion of their curriculum, South Texas ISD students will earn a credential from the National Center for Construction Education and Research or the American Welding Society, preparing them for immediate entry into the workforce in a high-demand occupation.  

“Skilled labor is in high demand in Texas, and programs like South Texas ISD’s help students begin a successful career,” said TWC Commissioner representing labor Julian Alvarez.

Through funds provided by the Legislature each biennium, TWC JET grants are used to defray start-up costs associated with the development of career and technical education programs to public community, state and technical colleges, and school districts.

During the 87th Texas Legislative Session, open enrollment charter schools and the Windham School District were also added as eligible applicants. Equipment funded through JET grants must be used to train students for jobs in high-demand occupations.

South Texas ISD serves middle and high school students living in the southern tip of Texas, the region known as the Rio Grande Valley. The district spans three counties, Cameron, Hidalgo and Willacy, and overlaps 28 other school districts with an area of 3,643 miles.

STISD is comprised of seven magnet schools throughout the Rio Grande Valley, and is the only school district in the state that offers students in the area an educational alternative.

As a public school district, there is no cost for students to attend, and bus transportation is also free, plus they maintain an open enrollment policy, which means that any student with a desire to learn can attend as long as they reside within the tri-county area.

Source: MEXICONOW Staff