|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408422
|
College & Career Conference 2026 | Grab & Go Breakfast + Registration
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Conference Center Exhibitor Area
Register or Check-In and enjoy complimentary grab & go breakfast.
|
General Session/Networking
|
24/500
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408461
|
College & Career Readiness Conference 2026 | Welcome & Keynote
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Starr/Brooks/Willacy Room
Welcome & Keynote
|
General Session/Networking
|
12/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408452
|
College & Career Readiness Conference 2026 | Morning Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Conference Center Exhibitor Area
Morning Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
|
General Session/Networking
|
6/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408384
|
Summer Bridge - Preparing Rising 9th grade Early College Students
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Brooks County Room
Presenter: Andrea Garza | United ISD
Our Early College Academy provides a two-week transition program designed to equip incoming ninth-graders with essential leadership and college readiness skills. Through hands-on activities, group projects, and personal reflection, students build a leadership portfolio. In collaboration with the counseling department, community resource centers, and guest speakers, we provide a robust support network that addresses both the academic and emotional needs of students. The curriculum is enriched with topics like digital citizenship, healthy relationships, goal setting, and public speaking, culminating in students creating their own personal mission statements. Even more, current Early College students serve as mentors and group leaders, providing valuable guidance, leadership development for upper classman, and a sense of community for the incoming class. This session would be impactful for any educator guiding high school students towards becoming academically driven, strong communicators, self-advocates, and mindful community members.
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
73/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408379
|
Scalable Work-Based Learning through a Student Run Enterprise
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Cameron County Room
Presenter: Rebecca Knight | Student Run Manufacturing Enterprise
How many high school students get an internship as a Vice President or Production Manager at a manufacturing plant? Do your industry/business partners want to engage, but don’t have the capacity to host interns?
Based on a highly collaborative partnership between education and industry, the Student Run Manufacturing Enterprise (SRME) model provides authentic work-based learning (WBL) for students as they run all aspects of a manufacturing company.
You will hear how the SRME model has been implemented at several schools, the ways this model breaks down typical barriers to WBL, and tips for replicating it in your region.
|
CTE Initiatives
|
31/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408408
|
Lights, Advisement, Action: Igniting a New Era of Group Support for Dual Credit CTE Students
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Falcon Dam Room
Presenter: Kimberly Guajardo | South Texas College
This session is designed for practitioners who advise or support dual credit CTE students and are seeking scalable, student-centered approaches. Participants will explore a group advising model, including structure, facilitation strategies, and practical examples that highlight how collective advising addresses common academic goals. Attendees will gain actionable insights to improve engagement, increase efficiency, and enhance student outcomes beyond what traditional one-on-one advisement alone can achieve.
|
CTE Initiatives
|
41/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408458
|
Sector Strategies for Building Flexible Pathways
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fort McIntosh Room
Presenters: JFF Jobs for the Future & Lizeth Olivarez | Region One ESC
|
CTE Initiatives
|
10/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408414
|
Where Culture Meets College Readiness: Building CCMR Through Community and Collaboration
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fort Ringgold Room
Presenter: Noelia Flores | Mercedes ISD
This session highlights an innovative partnership between Mercedes High School’s ACE Program and the CCMR Coordinator designed to strengthen college, career, military, and life readiness. Through after-school ACE tutoring focused on TSI preparation, students increase TSI college readiness, a key goal of the EAF Grant. In collaboration, both programs also support FAFSA completion, aligning academic acceleration with postsecondary access. The partnership extends into the community through culturally relevant, family-centered events, such as a tamalada paired with a FAFSA night, allowing the district to collaboratively meet multiple grant goals while ensuring students are truly college, career, and military ready.
|
Community & Partnerships
|
43/98
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408425
|
From Funding to Impact: Leveraging Grants to Build Systems for Sustainable Educator Pipelines
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
La Lomita Room
Presenter: Jennifer Maldonado | Harlingen CISD
Districts often access multiple funding sources, yet the true impact comes from using those resources strategically to build cohesive systems rather than isolated initiatives. This session highlights how Harlingen CISD intentionally leveraged and aligned grant funding to develop multiple sustainable educator pipelines, supporting teachers and other educator roles aligned to district workforce needs. Participants will explore strategies for coordinating funding sources, aligning grants to long-term district goals, and designing pipeline systems that extend beyond individual grant cycles. Designed for district leaders and educators, this session offers practical insights for maximizing funding to strengthen educator pipelines and advance college, career, and workforce readiness.
|
CTE Initiatives
|
16/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408417
|
Professional Portraits - Session 1
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Sal Del Rey Room
Provided by: Vanguard Academy Beethoven Secondary Audio Visual Production Students
|
CTE Initiatives
|
41/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408398
|
Building Future Leaders: How UTRGV Army ROTC Shapes Career Ready Graduates
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Starr County Room
Presenters: Raul Gomez, Nathan Torres, David Schlaseman, Kasey Adams | UTRGV Army ROTC
In this dynamic session, discover how UTRGV Army ROTC program is shaping the next generation of career ready leaders. Participants will gain insights into how ROTC training goes beyond military preparation to instill leadership, discipline, and strategic skills that are invaluable in any career field. We'll explore real success stories, discuss how cadets balance academics and training, and highlight the pathways that lead ROTC graduates to success in both military and civilian careers.
Whether you're an educator, a counselor, or a student, join us to learn how UTRGV's Army ROTC can be a cornerstone of college and career readiness.
|
CTE Initiatives
|
13/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408405
|
Aligning Rigor and Readiness: The Region One College Prep Experience
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Willacy County Room
Presenter: Rachael Sanchez | Region One ESC
This informational session is designed for campus and district administrators and educators and focuses on how the Region One College Prep course supports College and Career Readiness Standards (CCRS) through the Region One College Prep Course. Participants will gain insight into instructional coherence, implementation structures, and leadership practices that support consistent rigor, strengthen CCMR outcomes, and align with district accountability goals.
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
10/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408797
|
College & Career Readiness Conference 2026 | Lunch Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Conference Center Exhibitor Area
Lunch Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
|
General Session/Networking
|
7/500
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408392
|
Metacognitive Strategies That Make STAAR Prep Meaningful
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Brooks County Room
Presenter: Priscilla Barrera, IDEA Public School & Matt Bardin, Zinc Learning Labs
This session will share foundational thinking skills suited to the design of STAAR that you can quickly incorporate to improve your secondary students’ engagement and performance. Participants will learn to distinguish between errors caused by lack of content knowledge and those caused by mistakes in execution, understand and practice the efficacy of iterating to reduce anxiety, read more effectively, and catch errors, and experience the best practices for tackling STAAR released multiple choice questions. All participants receive free Zinc Learning Labs licenses for 45 days to support STAAR readiness.
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
30/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408381
|
Navigating Free ACT Tools and Essential Resources
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Cameron County Room
Presenter: Kay Oliver | ACT
This workshop will showcase how access to several free ACT solutions and actionable ideas can support student achievement. Learn fresh ideas, and practical tools to support counselors and educators in their work with students, families, and communities. Join us on this journey of empowerment, innovation, and collaboration.
|
Student Services
|
14/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408409
|
Increasing the awareness of "Military" in CCMR
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Falcon Dam Room
Presenter: Colonel Eloy Cuevas | US Army Retired Weslaco High School JROTC
Weslaco High School is actively increasing awareness of the military pathway within CCMR by creating meaningful, visible, and engaging experiences for students and the community. Through military signing ceremonies at WHS, as well as Color Guard presentations at school events such as pep rallies, football games, convocation, and graduation, we highlight and honor students who choose to serve.
|
CTE Initiatives
|
28/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408412
|
CCMR in A-F Accountability - Session 1
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Fort McIntosh Room
Presenter: Liana Garia | Region One ESC
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
41/98
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408415
|
Partnerships & Opportunities with Region One Districts
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Fort Ringgold Room
Presenter: Robert Cogburn | Learning Source
This session will highlight innovative and affordable Career and Technical Education (CTE) program opportunities designed to expand workforce readiness and increase student access to high-demand career pathways. Participants will explore strategies for launching or strengthening programs such as an affordable Commercial Learner’s License (CDL) program, Semi-Permanent Makeup certification courses, and Phlebotomy training.
The session will also showcase the “Taste of CTE” Mobile Classroom initiative for middle and high school students, which introduces learners to hands-on career experiences and industry-based skills at an early stage. This mobile model provides a flexible, engaging way to spark interest in career pathways and increase program enrollment.
Additionally, the session will provide guidance on expanding or starting high-demand programs such as Welding, HVAC, Plumbing, Construction, and Culinary Arts. Attendees will gain insight into implementation strategies, funding considerations, industry partnerships, equipment needs, certification alignment, and marketing approaches to ensure program sustainability and student success.
Participants will leave with practical tools and actionable steps to grow affordable, high-impact CTE programs that meet workforce demands and create meaningful postsecondary opportunities for students.
|
Community & Partnerships
|
35/98
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408396
|
Dual Credit Roadmap Towards Completion
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Hidalgo County Room
Presenter: Dr. Rebecca De Leon & Aaron Guajardo | South Texas College
This presentation provides an overview of South Texas College’s nationally accredited Dual Credit Programs and their impact on college and career readiness. It highlights program benefits, student support resources, and strategies for guiding high school students through academic pathways toward completion. The session emphasizes advising, tracking, and collaborative approaches to ensure students successfully earn college credentials while in high scho
|
Dual Credit Models
|
56/192
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408428
|
Securing the Future: Introducing AP Cybersecurity for 2026–27
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
La Lomita Room
Presenter: Lana M. Sveda | College Board
Launching in 2026–27, AP Cybersecurity prepares students for high-demand careers by blending rigorous academics with real-world, career-connected learning . This session introduces the course framework, exam design, and work-aligned scenarios that develop essential technical and professional skills—no prior coding or cybersecurity experience required. Explore how units on securing networks, devices, applications, and physical spaces equip students to tackle today’s evolving threats. Learn how AP Cybersecurity fits into CTE pathways, engages industry partners, and expands access to future-ready opportunities for all students.
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
14/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408419
|
Professional Portraits - Session 2
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Sal Del Rey Room
Provided by: Vanguard Academy Beethoven Secondary Audio Visual Production Students
|
CTE Initiatives
|
3/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408400
|
Fostering Innovation and Diversity in Entrepreneurship
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Starr County Room
Presenter: Leo Saenz, Monica Pena, Christina De Leon | McAllen ISD
Providing innovation opportunities for students in Entrepreneurship classes. Partnered with Uncharted Learning INCubator program. McAllen ISD focuses on empowering minority and underserved students by providing opportunities for scholarships, internships, and workshop, ensuring they have the resources to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
|
CTE Initiatives
|
16/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408383
|
CCMR Deep Dive: Data, Dollars, and Driving Outcomes
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Willacy County Room
Presenter: Rebecca Lopez | Educate Texas
This session will provide an overview of Educate Texas and RGV FOCUS, highlighting our efforts to improve educational outcomes in the Rio Grande Valley. Participants will take a deep dive into House Bill 3’s College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) Outcomes Bonus Funding, exploring historical data trends and proven strategies for driving student success. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to strengthen postsecondary readiness and maximize funding opportunities.
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
61/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408793
|
College & Career Readiness Conference 2026 | Afternoon Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Conference Center Exhibitor Area
Afternoon Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
|
General Session/Networking
|
2/500
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408394
|
The CCMR PEIMS Connection
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Brooks County Room
Presenter: Diana Perez | Region One ESC
Dive into the critical components of College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) indicators and the PEIMS data sources that drive them. This session will provide participants with a clear and practical overview of CCMR indicators, where the data originates, and the key processes required to accurately collect, code, and verify data. Attendees will leave with a stronger understanding of how PEIMS reporting directly impacts CCMR outcomes and accountability results.
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
43/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408407
|
TSI Completion Tracking - Best Practices & EdSpire
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Cameron County Room
Presenters: Jose Soto McAllen ISD & Benjamin Macias, Edspire/Region One ESC
The TSI2 Assessment (TSIA2) is part of the Texas Success Initiative program designed to help a college or university determine if students are ready for college-level course work in the general areas of reading, writing, and mathematics. It is imperative for districts and campuses to have systemic processes to track TSI Completion. Come learn how McAllen ISD keeps track of their TSI completion.
Although the EdSpire software will be showcased, the concepts, processes and best practices have universal applicability whether your district uses EdSpire or not.
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
41/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408410
|
Family Engagement and CCMR Readiness
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Falcon Dam Room
Presenters: Monica Guerrero, Thalia Juarez Donna High School & Angelica Gomez-Gonzalez, Region One ESC
Family engagement is a critical driver in helping students meet College, Career, and Military Readiness standards. When our families are informed, involved, and empowered, our students are more likely to make intentional choices that keep them on track for postsecondary success.
Why focus on family engagement?
To build a shared understanding of CCMR requirements.
To reduce information gaps for our families.
To increase student accountability and motivation.
To strengthen school–family partnerships aligned to readiness goals
|
Community & Partnerships
|
50/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408413
|
CCMR in A-F Accountability - Session 2
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Fort McIntosh Room
Presenters: Liana Garcia & Anna Mendoza | Region One ESC
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
13/98
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408416
|
Learners in the Lead: Empowering Students with Tools for Certification Success
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Fort Ringgold Room
Presenter: Heidi Speese | NOCTI
Empowering students to own their learning is essential for engagement and long-term success—especially in CTE programs where certifications signal readiness for college, careers, and life. This session explores how students can become active, informed learners by using assessment resources to personalize instruction, build confidence, and improve performance on industry-recognized exams. We’ll examine how embedding certification competencies into instruction, paired with tools like study guides, pre-tests, and performance data, helps students track growth, close skill gaps, and celebrate progress. Join us to explore practical strategies and share your own learner-centered innovations
|
CTE Initiatives
|
11/98
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408397
|
CTE Classroom Strategies and Practices
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Hidalgo County Room
Presenter: Israel Neeley | La Villa ISD
|
CTE Initiatives
|
39/192
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408430
|
From Implementation to Impact: How SchooLinks is Transforming College & Career Readiness in Sharyland ISD
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
La Lomita Room
Presenter: Robyn Machac, Texas District Partnerships & Delilah Rodriguez, Lead Counselor, Sharyland ISD
|
CTE Initiatives
|
33/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408421
|
Professional Portraits - Session 3
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Sal Del Rey Room
Provided by: Vanguard Academy Beethoven Secondary Audio Visual Production Students
|
CTE Initiatives
|
4/63
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408402
|
Informal STEM Education
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Starr County Room
Presenters: Sylvia Escobar, Region One ESC
|
CTE Initiatives
|
7/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408406
|
Closing the Gap Between Education & Industry
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Willacy County Room
Presenter: Oscar Ramirez, Laredo ISD
|
CTE Initiatives
|
37/72
|
|
|
|
Thursday February 26, 2026
|
|
408795
|
College & Career Readiness Conference 2026 | Exhibitor Area Open
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Conference Center Exhibitor Area
Afternoon Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
|
General Session/Networking
|
2/500
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408798
|
College & Career Readiness Conference 2026 | Breakfast & Registration
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Conference Center Exhibitor Area
Breakfast & Registration
|
General Session/Networking
|
188/500
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408436
|
The Rio Grande Valley Model: Industry, Education, and CCMR in Action
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Brooks County Room
Presenter: Maricela De Leon, RGV Lead
|
CTE Initiatives
|
65/72
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408509
|
What Do We Do with SAT Suite Data? Practical Strategies for Districts to Support Every Student
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Cameron County Room
Presenter: Savannah Young | College Board
Did you know that when a student meets the SAT Suite College Readiness benchmark, they demonstrate a 75% likelihood of earning at least a C in a first-semester, credit-bearing college course in a related subject? Districts collect a wealth of data through the SAT Suite of Assessments, and the next step is using that data to drive meaningful student support. This session explores practical strategies for leveraging SAT Suite data to inform interventions, course planning, and college readiness efforts. You will leave this session knowing how the SAT connect students to opportunities such as scholarships, National Merit qualification, National Recognition Programs, BigFuture Scholarships, and AP Potential™.
|
Student Services
|
18/72
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408460
|
UTRGV and Dual Credit Programs
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Falcon Dam Room
Presenter: Michael Aldape | The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is committed to providing high school students with opportunities to engage in college coursework through its dual credit program that will lead towards completion of a bachelor’s degree. UTRGV fosters partnerships through this program, going so far as to launch three collegiate high schools with independent school districts. This session will provide an overview of the UTRGV dual credit program, focusing on specific partnerships with four school districts, and participants will leave the session with an overview of lessons learned over the course of eleven years and multiple phases of program development.
|
Dual Credit Models
|
30/63
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408456
|
Promise Beyond Tuition
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Fort McIntosh Room
Presenters: Melissa Pena & Robert Barrera | South Texas College
Valley Promise has evolved from a scholarship model into a college and career pipeline strategy — one that reshapes how we identify students, communicate with them, support them, and measure success.
This presentation explores how Promise programs can function as institutional strategy, not just financial aid — and what it takes to design them that way.
|
Student Services
|
14/63
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408440
|
Career Readiness & Outreach
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Fort Ringgold Room
Presenters: Anna Munivez | Workforce Solutions Cameron & Adrian Dorsett | Brownsville ISD
Workforce Solutions Cameron proposes a workshop focused on the role and function of the Workforce Readiness Outreach Specialist and the impact derived from supporting career pathway development. The session will highlight on how the Outreach Specialist engages students through our service area building awareness of workforce services, training opportunities, and in-demand career pathways. Participants will gain insight into available resources and services that strengthen workforce readiness, improve alignment with regional labor market needs, and support sustainable career advancement. The session will feature BISD's CTE Director, Mr. Dorsett offering testimonials on how the students have benefitted from the partnership.
|
Student Services
|
60/63
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408495
|
Need a Break? A Calm Room for Students and Staff - Session 1
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Sal Del Rey Room
Presenter: Rosa Herrera | Region One ESC
|
Student Services
|
1/63
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408444
|
From Cadet to Career-Ready: The Power of JROTC Leadership Certification
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Starr County Room
Presenter: Heidi Speese | NOCTI
JROTC cadets demonstrate leadership, character, and professionalism every day—but how can we help them turn those qualities into recognized opportunities? This session will guide educators through the process of offering the JROTC Leadership and Employability Skills Certification in their programs. Learn how this credential, developed in partnership with JROTC, supports accountability, aligns with CTE goals, and provides cadets with a tangible way to showcase their strengths to employers, colleges, and the community. We’ll cover practical steps for implementation and strategies to help cadets take ownership of their leadership journey.
|
CTE Initiatives
|
26/72
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408449
|
Rural Roots, University Rigor: The OnRamps Dual Enrollment Experience - Driving College and Career Readiness Through OnRamps
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Willacy County Room
Presenters: Efrain Barron, Alejandro De La Garza, Ms. Erica Naud, Dr. Aleandra Saldivar Onramps Rep & Lyford ISD
This session highlights how Lyford High School, a rural South Texas campus, successfully implements UT Austin’s OnRamps dual enrollment program to expand college access and academic rigor for students. Participants will learn how Lyford HS aligned OnRamps offerings with local staffing, scheduling, and student supports to ensure success in university-level coursework while students remain on their home campus. The session will share implementation strategies, lessons learned, and student impact data, demonstrating how rural schools can overcome geographic barriers and provide equitable access to high-quality dual enrollment opportunities through strong partnerships and intentional planning.
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
29/63
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408800
|
College & Career Readiness Conference 2026 | Lunch Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Conference Center Exhibitor Area
Lunch Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
|
General Session/Networking
|
5/500
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408494
|
Scaling Student Success Through Advising
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Brooks County Room
Presenter: Isela Herrera | Region One ESC
Explore how strategic college and career advising serves as one of the most powerful levers for improving College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR). Participants will learn how advising directly impacts dual credit completion, college enrollment, industry certifications, and military enlistment—key pathways TEA uses to determine CCMR credit. Designed for district leaders, counselors, and CCMR teams, this session highlights how aligned advising systems help districts convert student opportunity into measurable accountability results.
|
Student Services
|
53/98
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408448
|
From Application to Award: Guiding Students Through FAFSA and Scholarships
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Cameron County Room
Presenter: Nicole Saenz | Region One ESC
|
Student Services
|
43/63
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408435
|
Using OnRamps to Strengthen College Readiness and CCMR
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Falcon Dam Room
Presenter: Michelle Beeman | OnRamps
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
20/63
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408462
|
Empowering Programs to Navigate Uncertainty and Implement Innovative, Engaging Solutions to Increase Academic Achievement
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Fort McIntosh Room
Presenter: David Waldherr | Cambridge Grant Award Program
This session explores grade-level equitable strategies to empower rural and inner-city communities, teachers, and students through motivational strategies, agency, fostering critical thinking, lifelong learning, and financial stability. Participants engage in discussions, receive practical handouts, and create innovative, actionable plans that support low-income, first-generation student academic growth and achievement, college and career readiness (TSIA2, SAT), and long-term financial success. Specifically:
• increasing research-based engagement for rural and inner-city retention and learning,
• professional development bolstering instructional innovation,
• creating community, teacher and student agency,
• implementing a learner-centered approach,
• life-long learning of college/career skills, and
• increasing TSIA2 pass rate and SAT scores and improving CCMR.
|
Post-Secondary Readiness
|
19/63
|
|
|
|
Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408489
|
Level Up Your CTE Workforce Game
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Fort Ringgold Room
Presenter: Cassandra Zuvieta | La Feria ISD
Joins us to learn how La Feria ISD, a small town 4A district, currently operates its Partners Connect initiative. This CTE initiative joins over 20 industry partners with La Feria ISD to create internships, employment opportunities, and volunteer opportunities to make our students the FUTURE of the RGV workforce.
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CTE Initiatives
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43/63
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408498
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Need a Break? A Calm Room for Students and Staff - Session 2
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Sal Del Rey Room
Presenter: Rosa Herrera | Region One ESC
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Student Services
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49/63
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408446
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From Dashboards to Decisions: Tiered Data Systems That Expand Dual Credit Access
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Starr County Room
Presenter: Renee Garcia | PSJA ISD
Early College High Schools rely on purposeful use of data to expand Dual Credit access while ensuring students are academically prepared for success. This session examines how structured data systems support informed decision-making and strengthen Dual Credit enrollment strategies.
By organizing and analyzing student data across multiple readiness indicators, campus leaders are able to identify students who are TSIA-ready or approaching readiness, align targeted academic supports, and make timely enrollment decisions. This approach improves coordination across instructional and advising teams and ensures students are placed in opportunities aligned to their readiness level.
As a result, Early College High Schools implementing this model have experienced increased TSIA readiness rates, stronger Dual Credit enrollment outcomes, and clearer alignment to CCRSM expectations. Participants will gain actionable insight into how data-informed systems support sustainable enrollment growth, stronger student outcomes, and systemwide consistency.
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Post-Secondary Readiness
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27/63
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408450
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Ready, Set, Prep! Digital Resources for Test, College and Career Readiness
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Willacy County Room
Presenter: Ana Maria Perez | Region One ESC
Preparing students for college, career pathways, and high-stakes testing requires powerful and accessible digital tools. In this session, participants will discover how EBSCO LearningExpress can support ACT®, SAT®, TSI, and career certification preparation while also strengthening college and career readiness skills, all within one comprehensive platform.
Attendees will explore ways to integrate LearningExpress into classrooms, libraries, tutoring programs, and CCMR initiatives, helping students create personalized study plans, build confidence, and take meaningful steps toward postsecondary success. Leave with ready-to-use strategies that you can implement immediately to support student readiness and achievement.
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Student Services
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39/63
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408799
|
College & Career Readiness Conference 2026 | Lunch Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Conference Center Exhibitor Area
Lunch Networking Break & Exhibitor Area Open
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General Session/Networking
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7/500
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408437
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How to improve TSI scores within the constraints of the master schedule
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Brooks County Room
Presenter: Mo Arbaj | Chalk Talk
ChalkTalk shares two flexible models for embedding SAT/ACT/TSIA2 prep into existing high school schedule. One of ChalkTalk’s Region 1 partners, Laredo ISD will share their implementation experience and success story. Participants will explore real implementation examples, collaboration strategies, and key lessons learned to support CCMR goals.
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Post-Secondary Readiness
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52/63
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408431
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Did You Know?: Rethinking Careers in Construction
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Cameron County Room
Presenter: Dr. Edelmiro F. Escamilla | Texas A&M University - Construction Science
This session is best for community partners committed to student success who influence career awareness, pathways, and workforce readiness. The session will highlight the urgent need for a skilled construction workforce, share data-driven insights, and address common misconceptions about construction careers through real-world examples and student-centered perspectives. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of modern construction opportunities and practical language to rethink the industry as innovative, respected, and economically strong. Ultimately, this session will help partners shift perceptions, dispel negative myths, and more confidently guide students toward high-demand construction career pathways.
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Community & Partnerships
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41/72
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408464
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Externships with Industry Partners as a District/R-PEP Work-Based Learning System
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Fort McIntosh Room
Presenters: Cori Thomas, San Perlita ISD, Luis Vasquez, Lyford CISD and Colt Stacer, Stacer Group
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CTE Initiatives
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22/63
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408489
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Level Up Your CTE Workforce Game
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Fort Ringgold Room
Presenter: Cassandra Zuvieta | La Feria ISD
Joins us to learn how La Feria ISD, a small town 4A district, currently operates its Partners Connect initiative. This CTE initiative joins over 20 industry partners with La Feria ISD to create internships, employment opportunities, and volunteer opportunities to make our students the FUTURE of the RGV workforce.
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CTE Initiatives
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43/63
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408441
|
CTE Changemakers in Action: Rio Grande City Grulla ISD
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Hidalgo County Room
Presenters: Adelina Villareal, Rio Grande City Grulla ISD & Vilma Gomez, ICEV
See what’s new at iCEV and how it’s making a real difference in classrooms. In this session, we’ll highlight the latest iCEV features and updates while showcasing how Rio Grande City Grulla ISD is using iCEV to support teachers, engage students, and streamline instruction.
Participants will learn about what’s working in the district, including instructional strategies and tools that are making a measurable impact across career pathways. This is a practical, educator-centered session focused on ideas you can adapt immediately, whether you’re new to iCEV or looking to get more out of the platform.
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CTE Initiatives
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30/63
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Friday February 27, 2026
|
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408500
|
Need a Break? A Calm Room for Students and Staff - Session 3
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Sal Del Rey Room
Presenter: Esperanza Rodriguez | Region One ESC
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Student Services
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12/63
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408493
|
Money Moves That Matter: Inside AP Business with Personal Finance
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Starr County Room
Presenter: Lana M. Sveda | College Board
AP Business with Personal Finance is an introductory, college-level course designed for the CTE business pathway. Students explore entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, accounting, and management through real-world applications, case studies, and project-based learning. Students learn and apply all the National Standards for Personal Financial Education created by the Council for Economic Education and the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy. Discover the course framework, key skills, and how the course supports multiple CTE pathways while preparing students for college, career, and financial independence.
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Post-Secondary Readiness
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18/63
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|
|
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408447
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Designing High-Impact College & Career Readiness Partnerships: Accountability, Strategy, and Organizational Flexibility
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Willacy County Room
Presenters: Kevin Garcia, Harlingen CISD & Zachary Gonzalez, The Princeton Review
How can districts prepare for the evolving demands of House Bill 8 while building a sustainable, student-centered college and career readiness culture? Through the story of Harlingen CISD’s multi-year partnership journey with The Princeton Review — from SAT/ACT prep to TSI, AP support, and back to SAT — this session demonstrates how flexible collaboration and data-driven planning can elevate readiness outcomes. Attendees will examine current CCMR requirements, explore service models that drive student achievement, and engage in activities designed to spark dialogue, break down silos, and rethink how to leverage external partners for wrap-around readiness support.
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Post-Secondary Readiness
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39/63
|
|
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Friday February 27, 2026
|
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408802
|
College & Career Readiness Conference 2026 | Afternoon Networking Break & Exhibitor Area
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Conference Center Exhibitor Area
Afternoon Networking Break & Exhibitor Area
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General Session/Networking
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4/500
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|
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Friday February 27, 2026
|
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408438
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Turning CTE and CCMR Data into Actionable Insights
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Brooks County Room
Presenter: Ana Sepulveda, CTE & CCMR Specialist Roma ISD & Eduthings
How much time do you spend managing reporting requirements and wishing your data were easier to access when you need it?
Accurate and timely CTE and CCMR reporting depends on having reliable, accessible data. This session highlights how Roma ISD is automating CTE and CCMR processes to reduce inefficiencies and improve visibility across programs.
Participants will learn how automation supports certification tracking, CCMR monitoring, WBL documentation, training plans, teacher visits, and CTSO reporting, helping districts stay organized, compliant, and prepared while spending less time on manual data management. The session demonstrates how Eduthings supports Roma ISD.
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CTE Initiatives
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33/72
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408432
|
Empowering Postsecondary Readiness: AVID Strategies That Work
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Cameron County Room
Presenter: Bucky Hartman, AVID & Holly Deleon, McAllen ISD
Preparing students for success beyond high school requires intentional strategies and meaningful experiences. In this session, a Holly De Leon from McAllen ISD will share best practices for fostering college and career readiness through AVID methodologies. Participants will explore practical approaches to building academic skills, cultivating student agency, and creating a college-going culture. Real-world examples and actionable strategies will equip educators to implement systems that support all students in achieving their postsecondary goals.
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Post-Secondary Readiness
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24/72
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|
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Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408467
|
Scaling Access: Universal Engagement in Work-Based Learning
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Fort McIntosh Room
Presenter: Eloy Garza | Career Bridge
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Community & Partnerships
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11/63
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|
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Friday February 27, 2026
|
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408411
|
Go-Centers: Remodel Edition
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Fort Ringgold Room
Presenter: Delicia Sanchez | Region One ESC
Caution: This will be an interactive session on Go-Center resources, including helpful tools and activities, aiming to leave you with a blueprint to enhance student experiences and upgrade your space. We will touch on all the services your center can provide while focusing on transformative best practices for applications, acceptance, and preparation. Bring your hard hats!
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Student Services
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29/63
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|
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Friday February 27, 2026
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408443
|
My Story, My Strength: Why Your Story Matters
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Hidalgo County Room
Presenter: Sylvia Vargas | Region One ESC
My Story, My Strength: Why Your Story Matters
Leveraging Personal Narrative to Support College & Scholarship Essay Development
Students often tell us, “You don’t know my life” or “You don’t understand.” As educators, we work hard to build relationships—but meaningful connection goes beyond academic support. It requires authenticity, trust, and the ability to model vulnerability.
This session invites educators to examine the power of their own stories and how intentional storytelling can strengthen relationships while equipping students to write authentic, compelling college and scholarship essays. Participants will explore how lived experiences—both theirs and their students’—can be reframed to highlight perseverance, leadership, and character in ways that resonate with admissions and scholarship reviewers.
Through guided reflection, peer discussion, and practical application, educators will develop strategies to model storytelling, create safe spaces for student voice, and support essay development that aligns with students’ identities and goals. Participants will leave with actionable tools to help students move beyond surface-level responses and toward essays that reflect who they are and why their story matters.
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Community & Partnerships
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29/63
|
|
|
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Friday February 27, 2026
|
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408503
|
Need a Break? A Calm Room for Students and Staff - Session 4
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Sal Del Rey Room
Presenter: Rosa Herrera | Region One ESC
|
Student Services
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16/63
|
|
|
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Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408434
|
Sharyland ISD: Expanding College & Career Readiness Pathways Through Early College & P-TECH
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Starr County Room
Presenter: Diana Rojas & Monica Kaufmann | Sharyland ISD
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Dual Credit Models
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37/72
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|
|
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Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408454
|
Smarter Not Harder demystifying AI in Education
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Willacy County Room
Presenter: Omar Lopez | Region One ESC
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Post-Secondary Readiness
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30/63
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|
|
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Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408459
|
Focusing on the Wildly Important: A 4DX Approach to Student and Campus Success
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Falcon Dam Room
Presenter: Liza Rincones Canchola | FranklinCovey Education
Imagine if every adult and student on your campus was crystal clear on what matters most—and excited to own it. The 4 Disciplines of Execution (4DX) offer a simple, powerful way to turn that vision into reality. In this session, you’ll learn how to define Wildly Important Goals (WIGs), act on high-impact lead measures, and use simple scoreboards and accountability to build momentum. You’ll leave with one WIG drafted—personal or campus-based—and a one-page 4DX guide you can use immediately to focus your team, energize students, and turn big hopes into predictable wins.
|
Community & Partnerships
|
11/63
|
|
|
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Friday February 27, 2026
|
|
408807
|
College & Career Readiness Conference 2026 | Closing Session & Door Prize
3:15 PM - 4:00 PM
Hidalgo/Cameron/Starr/Brooks/Willacy Room
Closing Session & Door Prize
|
General Session/Networking
|
13/500
|
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