Students Receive Over $47,000 in Support Through Hidalgo County–Region One Partnership for Dropout Recovery

Edcouch, Pharr & Weslaco, Texas – The Hidalgo County Community Service Agency has awarded more than $47,000 in direct student assistance to support adults re-enrolling in high school through Region One Education Service Center’s Dropout Recovery Initiative. The funding helps reduce barriers for adult learners working to complete their education and work toward high-wage, in-demand careers.

Region One’s Dropout Recovery initiative re-engages adults ages 18 to 26 who have previously left high school. By combining educational support with wraparound community services, Region One helps participants return to school, earn their high school diploma and pursue career pathways or post-secondary education.

In April 2025, the Hidalgo County Community Service Agency partnered with Region One to offer students support while they pursue their high school diploma. Assistance includes supplies, graduation regalia and over $20,000 in utility assistance.

“It was indeed a pleasure to partner in this work to incentivize, reward and accentuate the great work of the students, the school districts and Region One,” said Jaime Longoria, Executive Director of the Hidalgo County Community Service Agency. “Together, the participants are off to a great beginning, and we look  forward to supporting their efforts to reach other milestones on their life journey.”

Region One partners with Edcouch-Elsa ISD, Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD and Weslaco ISD to provide re-entry opportunities tailored to adult learners. These campuses offer flexible scheduling, individualized support and career-connected learning to meet students where they are at in their education.

“We want to improve the quality of life in the Region,” said Dr. Daniel P. King, Executive Director of Region One ESC. “This partnership allows us to enhance the wraparound supports available to adults returning to school and break down the barriers that often prevent them from completing their high school education.”

The programs are free and open to all eligible adults, regardless of where they reside. Interested individuals ages 18–26 can begin the enrollment process by emailing studentrecovery@esc1.net.