PSJA ISD Welcomes Visitors for Learning Tour as Exemplar Model District

PHARR – Recognized as an Exemplar Model district for the successful implementation of the required Community Partnerships Initiative by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) proudly welcomed district leaders from La Villa ISD and Raymondville ISD for a Learning Tour on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. Visitors toured the PSJA Elvis Ballew Learning Center and Daniel Ramirez Elementary. 
 
The tour was part of the district’s continued role as a Community Partnerships Grant (CPG) Exemplar Model District. In 2019, PSJA ISD received the SSI Community Partnership Grant through TEA to support the development and expansion of partnerships between the district and local community organizations to enhance early learning experiences. 
 
As a result of its work, PSJA ISD has emerged as a statewide leader in creating a comprehensive early childhood one-stop hub. By effectively implementing the grants framework that supports academic programs, family engagement, and community partnerships, the district aligned and strengthened the high-quality school readiness programs for its youngest learners. 

“We are very honored to have been recognized as an Exemplar CPG recipient by the Texas Education Agency,” said Executive Officer for Elementary Schools, Claudia Gonzalez. “With this recognition, PSJA ISD is now serving as a mentor for other districts that are recipients of the grant.” 

During the tour, visitors received insight into PSJA's Community Partnerships Initiative SWOT and Root Cause Analysis, and Parental Engagement Program. 
 
As part of its designation as a TEA Exemplar Model, PSJA ISD provides ongoing mentorship and guidance to the new cohort of CPG recipients throughout both the planning and implementation phases of the grant. 

To learn more about the PSJA’s Early Childhood initiatives, visit: www.psjaisd.us/earlychildhood 

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