United ISD students complete first study-abroad program at Universidad de Salamanca

United Independent School District staff reported on the district’s first study-abroad program during the August 2025 workshop, saying 16 rising seniors completed a two-week academic and cultural program at the Universidad de Salamanca in Spain and that all participating students passed.

Melissa Ramirez, director of guidance and counseling, told trustees the trip was supported by community donations, parents and some board discretionary funds. Ramirez said United ISD has now received official transcripts from Universidad de Salamanca for the participating students — the district’s first direct transcripts from that university.

Ramirez said the program combined classroom instruction with cultural excursions and that students gained language practice and exposure to college life abroad. Student representatives who spoke at the workshop described visiting historic sites, attending university classes and developing independence and language skills.

Funding and logistics: Ramirez said the district did not use operating general-fund dollars to pay for the trip; it was supported by parent contributions, community donations and board discretionary funding. The director said staff will share a short video of the trip and the official transcripts will be distributed to participating students by mail.

Next steps: Ramirez and campus representatives asked the board to consider sustaining or expanding similar overseas opportunities. No formal action was taken at the workshop; trustees thanked staff and students for the report.