PSJA ISD Class of 2024 Makes History with Over $167 Million in Scholarships and Grants

District Celebrates Record-Breaking Achievements and Millions in Tuition Savings through Dual Enrollment 

PHARR – Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) proudly announced a historic milestone for the district as the Class of 2024 graduates from all six high schools were awarded over $167 million in scholarships and grants. The announcement and celebration was made during a Regular School Board Meeting held Monday, June 10, 2024. This remarkable achievement showcases the district's commitment to academic excellence and college readiness. 

Over 2,100 PSJA ISD seniors graduated during the district’s ceremonies held on June 7-8, 2024 at the Bert Ogden Arena. In addition to a significant number of Class of 2024 graduates, 99% applied to college, and 96% completed the FAFSA/TASFA applications, setting them on a path to post-secondary education.  

Parents and students also saved over $7.7 million in college tuition through PSJA ISD's nationally recognized Early College Program offered in partnership with South Texas College. 

PSJA ISD is a pioneer of Early College in the Rio Grande Valley, being one of the only districts in the state and nation with a wall-to-wall Early College Program, demonstrating its commitment to providing opportunities for all. The program allows students to earn college credits while still in high school, ensuring they are well-prepared for higher education and future career success. 

"We are incredibly proud of our Class of 2024 for their outstanding accomplishments," said Dr. Alejandro Elias, Superintendent of Schools. "This record-breaking number of scholarships and grants is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, educators, and the entire PSJA community. Our Early College Program continues to provide incredible savings and valuable college experience for our students, reinforcing our commitment to their academic and future success." 

The success of the PSJA Class of 2024 highlights the district's focus on creating pathways for student success through rigorous academic programs, dedicated support, and strong partnerships with higher education institutions.  

“The partnership with PSJA ISD for us is monumental,” said South Texas College President Dr. Ricardo J. Solis during a presentation at the PSJA ISD School Board Meeting. "We are always at the cutting-edge of making sure that the programs that we offer are the latest of what students need and most importantly what the community and the workforce and economic needs of the industry.”  

According to STC President Dr. Solis, as its largest school district partner, PSJA ISD recently had a record number of students graduate from South Texas College Commencement Ceremonies.  

Through its ongoing partnership with South Texas College, PSJA ISD students can choose from over 12 career pathways and more than 25 specialized programs to jumpstart their careers and future.  According to the 2023 Texas Academic Performance Report (2023 TAPR), the number of PSJA Early College graduates continues to increase each year. Of the 587 named prospective graduates for South Texas College’s Spring Commencement Ceremonies, 445 were for Associate Degrees and 142 for College Certificates. 

At PSJA ISD, these record-breaking numbers for graduates are made possible through the ongoing work and collaborations led by PSJA College Readiness, PSJA College Transition, counselors, and high schools, all working towards the same mission of providing opportunities for all students. 

“Thank you to everyone who helps make these opportunities possible for our students,” said PSJA Superintendent Dr. Elias. “It truly takes a team helping to educate students and supporting them as they apply for colleges and universities and financial aid.” 

PSJA ISD is an open-enrollment school district serving over 30,000 students. The district welcomes students living anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley.  

Parents interested in having their children take advantage of the Early College opportunities can learn more at www.psjaisd.us/earlycollegeprogram 

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