Harlingen CISD reimagines CTE with ‘thirteenth year,’ industry partnerships and focus on soft skills

Harlingen CISD’s director for career and technical education told trustees the district is expanding CTE so students leave high school ready for college or careers, including a planned “thirteenth year” transition program, deeper employer partnerships, and an increased emphasis on soft skills.

Nelda Alonso, who identified herself as the district’s director for CTE, told the board the department’s vision is to “ensure that our students know where they're going past graduation” and described a plan that begins with career exploration in middle school, a career digital portfolio and a required personal graduation plan in high school. That plan is intended to culminate in annual student‑led conferences with teachers and parents to track progress toward postsecondary or workforce goals.

Alonso listed four strategic priorities: expanding networking and advisory committees with industry partners, deepening collaboration with postsecondary institutions (including dual credit expansion), establishing a thirteenth‑year program for…