United ISD to consider MOU with University of Salamanca for pilot Spain program amid equity and budget concerns

United Independent School District staff told trustees at a Nov. workshop that they will present a memorandum of understanding with the University of Salamanca for a pilot study‑abroad program at next week’s board meeting.

Melissa Ramirez, director of guidance and counseling, said the initial pilot would select four students from each of the district’s four high schools — 16 students in all — using GPA, essays, attendance and behavior as selection criteria. "Four students from each high school will be selected," Ramirez said. She added that students originally were expected to pay about $4,000–$4,100 each for registration, room, board and flights and that the guidance office would travel with them.

The district’s finance representative told the board staff would pursue a mix of principal account contributions, fundraising and district support to reduce costs for students, and estimated the district’s commitment could range from about $60,000 to $80,000. "We estimated to be between 60 to $80,000," the finance representative said.

The MOU grows from a partnership the district developed with McAllen ISD and other districts that operate similar programs. Rebecca Morales, associate superintendent for district administration and student services, said the district consulted TASB about whether a new district policy was required and was told none was necessary; administrative regulations for international travel would follow if the board approves the MOU.

Public commenters at the workshop questioned whether the program is the right use of limited funds. "This is what needs to be prioritized, not this study abroad program," one parent said, urging the board to focus on student safety and basic needs such as vape detectors, bus drivers and school security before funding international travel. Another commenter asked about liability and whether students would travel with familiar teachers.

Trustees said they welcome more detail before a vote. Board members asked staff to return next Wednesday with additional information about participating countries and districts, the program curriculum and credit hours, and invited presenters or participants to provide testimony at the meeting.

If approved at the forthcoming board meeting, staff said they will post administrative regulations and the program’s curriculum details on the district website and continue outreach to ensure fundraising or principal donations do not exclude low‑income students.