Edcouch-Elsa ISD Showcases Dropout Prevention and Recovery Efforts at Region One ESC Symposium
Edcouch, Texas – Edcouch-Elsa Independent School District proudly participated in the Dropout Prevention & Recovery Symposium hosted by the Region One Education Service Center on January 30-31, 2025. The symposium, titled “Rewriting the Story: Empowerment, Education, and the Road to Graduation,” brought together educational leaders from across the region to address innovative strategies for keeping students engaged and on track for success.
On describing his “why” and purpose, Mr. Candalerio Cerda, College Career Center Principal shared, “There is a greater power that put me here. Statistically I wasn’t supposed to graduate, but I’m here.”
“I joined the College Career Center at Edcouch-Elsa ISD to help provide a future for my daughter. I am going to graduate and I am going to be successful. My daughter is going to be able to say one day- my mom did it. I want to thank Miss Nora Silva from the College Career Center,” Genesis Martinez, a 19 year old student shared. Genesis Martinez, 19 years old
“My biggest challenge was getting pregnant and getting judged. I became a young mother at a young age- that gave me the strength and the motivation to pursue this program,” shared Abigail Cervantes, a 24 year old at the Edcouch-Elsa ISD College Career Center.
Edcouch-Elsa ISD’s presentation highlighted its comprehensive dropout prevention initiatives, which focus on fostering positive school culture, supporting students’ social-emotional needs, and implementing career awareness programs. The district emphasized its efforts to:
Create a Safe and Inclusive School Environment: By prioritizing emotional safety, psychological support, and respect for diversity, Edcouch-Elsa ISD has developed a school culture that helps students feel valued and supported.
Support Students Through Trauma-Informed Practices: Presenters discussed the impact of developmental trauma on brain development and shared strategies to help students overcome barriers to learning and success.
Promote Career Awareness and Engagement: Through activities like career days, guest speaker sessions, and interest surveys, the district connects students with real-world opportunities and encourages them to envision their future pathways.
“By addressing students’ academic, social-emotional, and career readiness needs, we aim to provide them with the tools and resources to succeed,” said Dr. Jesse Fidelio Garza, Public Relations Administrator. “Our participation in the symposium allowed us to share our successes and collaborate with other educators committed to preventing dropouts and inspiring students to graduate.”
The symposium included keynote speakers, panel discussions, and collaborative workshops designed to equip districts with practical solutions for dropout recovery. Attendees left with actionable insights on topics ranging from flexible class schedules for adult learners to fostering strong relationships between students and staff.
Edcouch-Elsa ISD remains committed to empowering its students and ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. For more information about the district’s dropout prevention programs, please visit www.eeisd.org.
For more information on EEISD’s College Career Center, please contact: 956-262-0430
