PSJA summer ADC/PEP program draws thousands, reports academic gains and strong parental involvement

Pharr‑San Juan‑Alamo ISD staff presented an impact report for the Additional Day/School Year (ADC/PEP) summer program, reporting strong participation, academic gains and extensive parental engagement.

Dr. Noyola (student services) said the program served more than 4,000 elementary students across PSJA sites during the summer and combined academic time (three hours: 1.5 hours reading/1.5 hours math) with three hours of enrichment daily. Staff reported average academic gains among participants — district slides cited roughly 65% improvement indicators in reading and 60% in math for students who attended regularly — and described 30 days of programming, about 25 field trips and numerous community partners supporting hands‑on activities.

The program included parent sessions offering practical skills (food handler certificates, CPR, employment supports); staff said roughly 300 parents participated in summer parent programming and 20% of participating parents reported gaining work or starting small businesses after participating. District staff showcased esports competitions, which drew student interest and provided social‑emotional and engagement benefits.

Region 1 observers who visited PSJA campuses commended the district’s level of parental engagement and the variety of enrichment activities; the visitors said they had not seen similar parental participation in other districts they reviewed. Trustees discussed continuation and funding questions; staff said they will seek grant and funding options to sustain successful elements of the program.

The presentation was informational; no board vote was required.