STC to launch AI community course in 2026

By The Edinburg Advocate | January 7, 2026
Bearded man typing at desktop computer in classroom

South Texas College, AI course, Edinburg News, Edinburg TX News, Education, Online Course Photo above: In the new year, South Texas College is introducing a new community course – Essentials of AI, or artificial intelligence. The course, beginning January 20, offered through STC’s Continuing Education and Workforce Development, is an entry-level introduction to AI, taught byfaculty…

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RGV LEAD rolls out regional student entrepreneurship challenge with Jan. 14 virtual kickoff

By The Edinburg Advocate | January 7, 2026
RGV Student Startup Showdown virtual kick-off

Edinburg News, Edinburg TX News, student entrepreneurship, RGV LEAD, Education Staff Report McAllen, TX – RGV LEAD has launched the S3 Entrepreneurship Challenge, a regional initiative aimed at expanding hands-on entrepreneurial learning and industry engagement for students across the Rio Grande Valley. Program launch and kickoff session The S3 Entrepreneurship Challenge will begin with a virtual…

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Youth accordionists invited to apply for 2026 Big Squeeze competition, deadline Jan. 7

By The Edinburg Advocate | January 7, 2026
The Big Squeeze 2026 youth accordionists wanted

Edinburg News, Edinburg TX News, arts and culture Staff Report Edinburg, TX – Young accordion players from across Texas and beyond are being encouraged to apply for the 2026 edition of The Big Squeeze, a statewide accordion competition that highlights emerging talent and diverse musical traditions. Presented by Texas Folklife, the annual competition is now accepting applications from…

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Edinburg library launches free children’s programs to kick off 2026

By The Edinburg Advocate | January 7, 2026
Dustin M. Sekula Library January 2026 children's programs

Edinburg News, Edinburg TX News, library programs, Dustin M. Sekula Memorial Library, children’s programs Staff Report Edinburg, TX – The Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library is welcoming the new year with a full slate of free children’s programs throughout January, offering opportunities for learning, creativity and family-friendly fun. The City of Edinburg Library and Cultural Arts Department announced…

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Edinburg CISD students return Jan. 6 as drivers are urged to slow down in school zones

By The Edinburg Advocate | January 6, 2026
Children boarding yellow school bus with adults

Edinburg News, Edinburg TX News, Edinburg CISD Staff Report Edinburg, TX – Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District campuses are returning to normal operations this week following the Christmas break, with district officials reminding motorists to use caution as students head back to class. Teachers and staff across the district returned to work Monday, Jan. 5, for…

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Edinburg library offers holiday take-and-make kits for all ages

By The Edinburg Advocate | December 30, 2025
Christmas craft display with wooden ornaments

Edinburg News, Edinburg TX News, library programs Staff Report Edinburg, TX – Residents looking for creative, family-friendly activities during the holiday season are invited to visit the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library, where free take-and-make craft kits are available while supplies last. The City of Edinburg Library and Cultural Arts Department is offering the kits at…

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Investment In Early Education Pays Long-term Benefits

By The Edinburg Advocate | December 29, 2025

The importance of effective early childhood education can hardly be overstated. In addition to improving the future quality of life and opportunities for children by better preparing them for success in school, such options are crucial to working parents. My firm recently examined this phenomenon through an economic cost and benefit lens, and the results…

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