PSJA Tri-City Talks Podcast

How is school safety evolving? PSJA Police Chief Rolando Garcia discusses some of the latest safety measures at PSJA ISD, including drone technology and Crime Stoppers, and explains how these tools support safer schools across the PSJA community.

In recognition of National School Bus Safety Week, PSJA ISD Transportation Director Jose Rivera takes families behind the scenes of student transportation and discusses school bus safety, driver responsibilities, and what parents and students can do to help make every ride safer.

How is artificial intelligence changing professional development for educators? PSJA ISD New Teacher Support Coordinator Maria Varela discusses how the district is using AI-powered tools, including new instructional droids, to support teachers and strengthen classroom instruction in the Rio Grande Valley.

How does PSJA ISD encourage students to look beyond the 956 and explore universities across Texas and the nation? In this episode, we talk to PSJA College Transition Director Carlos Garcia to explore the district’s efforts to build a college-going culture, expand students’ exposure to higher education, and help families discover opportunities they may not have considered. 

Plus, find out what parents and students can expect at PSJA College Night on October 6, 2026 including the chance to meet and connect directly with representatives from colleges and universities from across the state and country.

In this episode of PSJA Tri-City Talks, we sit down with PSJA ISD Health Services Director Sulema Solis to discuss Operation Border Health Preparedness (OBHP), one of the largest public health exercises in the nation, returning to PSJA Early College High School July 21-23, 2026.

During this conversation, Sulema shares how Operation Border Health brings together federal, state, and local agencies to provide free healthcare services to individuals and families throughout the Rio Grande Valley. From immunizations and diabetes screenings to dental care, vision exams, sports physicals, and prescription glasses, this event helps connect community members of all ages with essential healthcare resources at no cost.

In this episode of PSJA Tri-City Talks, we explore how PSJA ISD's International Baccalaureate (IB) campuses are preparing students to become critical thinkers, compassionate leaders, and globally minded learners. Listen to what Liberty Middle School Principal Dr. Michelle Fox and Graciela Garcia Elementary Principal Dr. Jennifer Burden have to say about the impact of the IB program and what makes the learning experience unique for students and families.

Listen to an inspiring conversation with 2008 PSJA High School Salutatorian and PSJA alumna Cecilia Corral, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of CareMessage, the nation’s largest patient engagement platform serving low-income populations. 

After earning her Associate Degree in Engineering through PSJA ISD’s Early College Program, Cecilia continued her academic journey at Stanford University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Product Design Engineering. Her work and leadership in healthcare innovation have since earned national recognition, including being named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Healthcare list. 

In this special episode, Cecilia reflects on how her experiences at PSJA ISD helped shape her path, the lessons she learned growing up in a low-income immigrant household, and how purpose-driven innovation led her to create meaningful impact through health technology. We will also hear about some of her latest work and the continued efforts to expand access and support for communities across the country. Her story is a powerful example of how education, opportunity, and determination can transform lives and communities. 

This episode of PSJA Tri-City Talks highlights the exciting opportunities available through PSJA ISD’s Summer Enrichment Days. From hands-on learning and career exploration to fine arts, athletics, STEM activities, and academic support, students across the district are staying engaged, building skills, and preparing for the future all summer long.

Hear from district leaders, educators, and students about how PSJA continues to create meaningful experiences that keep learning alive beyond the classroom. 

When the school year ends, access to daily meals can become a challenge for many families. In this episode of PSJA Tri-City Talks, we break down the PSJA Summer Meals Program—who qualifies, where meals are served, and why this initiative plays a critical role in student well-being and success. 

We also highlight the impact of consistent nutrition on student health, energy levels, and readiness to learn when the new school year begins. From convenient locations to free breakfast and lunch options, we cover what families need to know to stay supported this summer. 

Join PSJA ECHS Head Theatre Director Jaclyn Benavidez and LBJ Middle School student Gael Salinas as they discuss the impact of theatre and the opportunities available through the 2026 PSJA Rising Stars Musical Theatre Camp. 


Learn how middle school students build confidence, creativity, communication skills, and leadership through fine arts while preparing for this summer’s production of The Lion King Jr.!