San Elizario ISD board votes to close CTE construction program at high school

The San Elizario Independent School District Board of Trustees voted March 5 to close the construction strand of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program at San Elizario High School. Trustee Lorenzo Luevano made the motion, which Trustee Monica Chavez seconded; the motion passed.

Ms. Sandra Sanchez presented the district's CTE programs and described course offerings at the high school. Trustees questioned whether students receiving special education services are being routed to appropriate locations for career-plan readiness and whether some CTE seats are being filled by students who are not interested in the subject. Vice‑President Myrna Hernandez asked specifically whether another non‑CTE elective could be offered so uninterested students would not occupy CTE seats. Superintendent Dr. Jeannie Meza‑Chavez said the district would need to examine options and bring back guidance.

"Motion to close the CTE construction program at San Elizario High School," Trustee Lorenzo Luevano said when making the motion. Board President Eduardo Chavez also asked administration to provide data showing how many students previously expressed interest in enrolling in CTE pathways and to return with recommendations on current CTE offerings.

The board did not record an amendment to the motion in the transcript; the motion was recorded as passed. The district will need to identify next steps for students enrolled in or planning to enroll in the construction pathway and clearly communicate any transition plans to families and staff.