Empower Your Future: The PossAble Dream Adult High School Initiative in RGV

Reyna Advocates for The PossAble Dream Adult School Initiative Mario Reyna, the coordinator of the Prosperity Task Force, is calling on the community to rally support for The PossAble Dream Adult High School, an innovative educational initiative aimed at offering adults in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) a chance to earn high school diplomas and acquire valuable skills. This project is particularly crucial given the significant portion of the Valley’s adult population without a high school diploma, which hinders economic prosperity in the region. The Need for Adult Education in the Valley According to Arianna Vazquez-Hernandez from the Region One Education Service Center, approximately 29.5% of adults in the McAllen/Mission/Edinburg areas and 27.1% in Brownsville/Harlingen lack a high school diploma. These figures underscore a critical challenge facing the RGV community, impacting both households and local economies. “When adults earn a diploma, the impact is generational. Families see education modeled at home, local businesses gain skilled employees, and our region builds a stronger workforce and economy,” said Vazquez-Hernandez. A Comprehensive Educational Approach The PossAble Dream Adult High School is uniquely designed to address this pressing issue by providing adults aged 18-50 with opportunities not only to complete their high school education but also to gain industry certifications and employability training. Authorized by the Texas Education Agency, the school offers a multifaceted curriculum tailored to adults balancing work and family responsibilities. Additionally, students have access to free college coursework, internships, apprenticeships, and job placement support—tools essential for building a skilled workforce capable of supporting the Valley’s economic growth. Community Outreach Efforts Recognizing the importance of engaging the community, Vazquez-Hernandez is spearheading an outreach campaign to re-enroll potential students. Over the coming Saturdays—September 20 and 27—volunteers are invited to visit the homes of potential students to discuss educational opportunities. The outreach initiative begins with a meeting at 8:30 am at The PossAble Dream Adult High School Headquarters in Pharr, Texas. “Join us in the field to spread the word about this transformative opportunity,” Vazquez-Hernandez urged, hoping to mobilize community spirit toward a common goal. Impacting the Local Community The push for enhanced adult education aligns with broader goals for regional advancement in South Texas, particularly in efforts to combat poverty and unemployment in the Valley. Increased educational attainment among adults can drive economic development by expanding the pool of qualified candidates for higher-paying jobs, thus providing a mechanism to reduce economic disparity in the valley. Mario Reyna echoes this sentiment, emphasizing, “We need to help our community learn more about the educational opportunities available to them so that they can contribute to the prosperity of our region.” Connections to Long-Standing Issues The educational challenges facing the RGV are not new. Historically, the region has grappled with barriers to education and their subsequent economic implications. The PossAble Dream initiative seeks to address these by removing obstacles that prevent adults from completing their education, a move that everyone from local leaders to educators sees as a cornerstone of sustainable regional development. What Lies Ahead? While the initiative represents a significant opportunity for positive change, its long-term success will depend on continued community support and strategic partnerships. By fostering an environment where education is accessible to all, the RGV stands to benefit from a reinvigorated workforce capable of meeting future challenges. As the program develops, the engagement of local entities in spreading awareness and supporting returning students will be crucial. Volunteer efforts, community partnerships, and advocacy will shape how effectively the initiative addresses the educational shortfall and transforms it into an opportunity for growth. Getting Involved Community members interested in supporting the initiative or requiring more information can contact The PossAble Dream Adult High School via its headquarters in Pharr. This multifaceted educational program is more than just an initiative; it is a call to action for Valley residents to unite in creating a prosperous future. Ultimately, by investing in adult education through the PossAble Dream project, the Rio Grande Valley is making a profound commitment to its residents, ensuring that they have the tools and opportunities needed for future success.