“This Is Just the Beginning”: Edcouch-Elsa, PSJA, Weslaco Alumni Step Into Internships With DHR Health

Edinburg, Texas – Four alumni representing Edcouch–Elsa ISD, Pharr–San Juan–Alamo (PSJA) ISD, and Weslaco ISD were recognized on Oct. 17, 2025, at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance to mark the start of their EKG and HVAC internships.

Once off track for graduation, these alumni re-enrolled during the 2024-2025 school year to complete their diplomas and gain industry-based certifications through their districts’ 18–26 dropout recovery campuses. Region One ESC’s Dropout Recovery & Prevention initiative supports students with wraparound and career-exploration services and equips educators with targeted professional development.

The group was given a tour of their future workspaces and will officially begin their internships on Monday, October 20, 2025.

Among the interns is 25-year-old Alejandra Lugo, an Edcouch-Elsa ISD College & Career Center graduate who earned an Electrocardiography (EKG) certificate. Lugo left school at 17 to care for her family and home.

As a stay-at-home mother, Lugo said the school’s flexibility helped her quickly achieve her goals of earning a diploma and finding a better job.

“This certification is making an immediate impact on my life,” Lugo said. “It was the path I could complete the quickest. Now, I can start working to support my family.”

The 18-26 school model serves young adults who need credit recovery and completion while building a direct bridge to high-wage, in-demand jobs. Students finish remaining credits for a high school diploma and earn industry-recognized credentials aligned with local job openings.

“In the future, I plan to go back to school and become a registered nurse,” Lugo said. “This is how I start.”

During the recognition ceremony, Manuel Sanchez, Region One ESC’s College & Career Transition Coordinator, congratulated the group on earning their diplomas, certificates and starting new career pathways.

“We are so proud of you,” Sanchez said. “Please remember that your school is always here for you, Region One is always here for you. You are not alone, and this is just the beginning.”

Region One ESC also supports dropout recovery and prevention in Rio Grande City Grulla and Valley View ISDs, with new programs starting soon in San Benito, Laredo, Jim Hogg, Progreso and Brownsville ISDs. To re-enroll and work toward a high school diploma and an industry-based credential, email studentrecovery@esc1.net.