Rep. Cuellar Announces $1.9 Million in Federal Funding for South Texas College

Grant assists migratory or seasonal workers in Starr and Hidalgo counties obtain high school equivalent education services

Mission, TX- Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced over $1.9 million in federal funds for South Texas College through the Department of Education’s High School Equivalency Program (HEP). These federal funds will support migratory or seasonal workers obtain high school equivalent education services and, subsequently, to gain employment or begin postsecondary education or training. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Congressman Cuellar secured $50,000,000 for the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) and the High School Equivalency Program (HEP), a $5.4 million increase from FY19.

The funds will go towards implementing a South Texas College and Career Pathways Project spanning across 5 campuses in McAllen, Weslaco, and Rio Grande City. The program will serve 500 Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers through a 5 year needs-based model and help them receive a GED, Industry Recognized Certification Career Pathway training, and a certificate or degree. The program will also foster flexible and affordable path to education for Migrant and Seasonal farmworkers in South Texas. 

“I came to Congress to advance access to quality education for the people of South Texas. Education is critical to expanding opportunity and growing both a local and national economy,” said Congressman Cuellar. “These federal funds for South Texas College will  provide students the necessary resources and skills so they are able to participate in a 21st century workforce. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I secured funds for these programs so low-income and disadvantaged students are able to pursue their educational goals. I would like to thank South Texas College President Shirley Reed and the rest of the faculty for working to ensure that South Texas students get the education and opportunities they deserve.”

South Texas College President Dr. Shirley A. Reed said, “Completing a high school equivalency program is a critical first step to a better paying job and quality of life for families who never had the opportunity to complete high school. A helping hand leads to

 a better quality of life for these hard working families and leads to regional prosperity and social mobility.”