"There’s no better pay for an educator than to see their students graduate,” Teacher aid/STC Paraprofessional Cristina Negrete explained. Last week was an incredibly special day for Hidalgo ISD. The district was proud to announce that 65 of its students would be graduating from South Texas College with their Associate degrees or their certifications. When the district first became an early college Hidalgo ISD took an oath to guide its students to college success. Now years later, the district continues its long-lasting tradition of graduating students with their Associate degrees. The district held a banquet where the graduating class was treated to an elegant luncheon where they were awarded their stoles in front of family and friends.
Saul Hernandez a senior at Hidalgo Early College High School and recipient of a welding certification from STC was excited to share his plans. “I plan to get my 2nd certification this summer upon graduation. I have put a lot of thought into it, and I plan to leave for Chicago for school and begin working up there. I can get my life and career started right away.” Saul was one of 7 students who graduated with their AWS (American Welding Society) certification. “It’s an incredible accomplishment.” Negrete had said, “An AWS certification allows you to work anywhere on the planet. Welding is a career field that will always be in demand. These students will be able to obtain well-paying jobs straight out of high school.”
Aside from the students earning their certifications Hidalgo ISD also had many students earning their Associate degrees, Ayleen Martinez senior at Hidalgo Early College High School plans to continue her education and hopes to receive her bachelor's degree. “Earning my degree so young makes me extremely proud of myself. I’d like to thank my parents and teachers for helping and supporting me all the way through, but this is just the beginning, I plan to attend UTRGV and receive my bachelor's degree in Business Accountancy.”
“Our Hidalgo Early College High School STC graduates are a testament of HECHS’s commitment to provide opportunities to our students as they begin their life’s journey after they graduate high school.” HECHS Principal Rafael Tinoco had explained. “At HECHS we believe High School is about preparing students for life after graduation.”