DISTRICT UPDATE
La Joya ISD Provides Update on Review Process Related to Cesar Chavez Middle School
La Joya, Texas — La Joya Independent School District is providing an update regarding the review process connected to recent questions surrounding Cesar Chavez Middle School.
Following initial concerns raised across the state and within the community, the District administration and the La Joya ISD School Board of Managers have begun reviewing the District’s current policies and procedures related to the naming or renaming of district facilities. This review is intended to ensure that any actions taken by the district follow all established local policies and applicable state requirements.
As part of this process, the district is examining the current Board policy to determine whether it provides the appropriate guidance necessary for situations involving the naming or renaming of schools, along with any applicable actions that the Board may want to take now and for the future of the school district to ensure that all procedures meet applicable legal criteria. As a part of this process, the Board may consider whether updates or revisions to the existing policy are warranted to ensure clarity and transparency moving forward.
At this time, no decisions have been made regarding the renaming of Cesar Chavez Middle School. Rather, the district is focused on carefully reviewing the policies and procedures that guide such decisions before considering any potential next steps.
In addition, as part of the broader review of facility naming policies, the district may also evaluate whether other campuses or facilities should be included in a future naming or renaming discussion. Any such considerations would follow the same policy-driven process and include opportunities for stakeholder awareness and communication.
“La Joya ISD understands the importance that school names hold for our students, staff, families, and community,” said Dr. Marcey Sorensen, Superintendent of Schools. “Our responsibility is to ensure that any decisions made by the District are thoughtful, guided by policy, and reflective of the values of the community we serve.”
The district remains committed to transparency throughout this process. Any developments or decisions related to this matter will be communicated clearly with students, staff, families, and the broader community.
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Coach Albert Chavez and Coach Dee Hernandez want to send a special shout out to our 2026 La Joya Coyotes Varsity Golf Seniors! Thank you for the years of dedication on the golf course and in the classrooms. You all have set the standard for our underclassmen, and we are proud of the young men and women you have become. We want to wish you the best of luck in Day 2 of the 2026 District 31-6A Golf Tournament at Los Lagos Golf Course in Edinburg, Texas. May all your dreams come true. — Good luck and Go Coyotes! Tee off is at 8:00 am.
🎉 Celebrating Excellence!
We are proud to recognize Mr. Rolando Barajas, Educational Diagnostician, for his dedication to supporting student success and ensuring every learner gets the services they need to thrive.
Thank you, LJHS Principal, Mr. Eduardo Flores, for representing our LJHS community in honoring Mr. Barajas! 👏
#CoyotePride #LJISDLegacyOfExcellence
La Joya Coyotes Varsity Boys and Girls Golf Teams will be competing today, Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Los Lagos Golf Course, Edinburg, Texas, for day 1 of the 2026 31-6A District Golf Tournament. Day 2 is set for tomorrow, Thursday, March 26. Coach Chavez and Coach Hernandez just want to commend and thank these students and parents for all their sacrifices, dedication, commitment and hard work all year long. — Good luck and Go Coyotes! Tee off is at 8:00 am.
Varsity Boys Team (left to right): Eric "Deuce" Garcia (11), Jacob Hinojosa (11), Ethan Ramos (12), Angel Rodriguez (12), Josue Domingues (11), and Owen Benoit (11).
Varsity Girls Team (left to right): Nataly Garcia (10), Keyda Gamez (11), Aissa Pro (9), Camila Garza (12), Anyra Perez (12), Jhennaly Longoria (12), and Ashley Garcia (12).
La Joya ISD educators are invited to join Superintendent Dr. Marcey Sorensen for a series of informal, on-campus conversations designed to listen, learn, and connect.
These sessions provide an opportunity for educators to share what’s working, discuss ideas, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue about how we support our campuses and students.
✨ No presentations. No scripts. Just real conversations.
Sessions will be held at campuses across the district and are open to all La Joya ISD educators.
📣 ACT Testing for Juniors
🗓️ Juniors, your ACT test date is coming up—be prepared and mark your calendar!
✅ Why take the ACT?
• Used for college admissions
• Qualify for scholarships
• Shows college readiness
• Helps plan your future after high school
📌 Check with your school for your official test date and details.
#ACT #ClassOf2027 #CollegeReady #FutureFocused #LJISDLegacyOfExcellence
📣 TSIA Testing Schedule is Here!
🗓️ Don’t miss your chance to take the TSIA and stay on track for college readiness.
✅ Benefits of taking the TSIA:
• Shows you’re ready for college-level courses
• Helps avoid remedial classes
• Opens doors to dual credit opportunities
• Saves time and money in college
📌 Check your campus for specific dates and sign up today!
#TSIA #CollegeReady #FutureStartsNow #LJISDLegacyOfExcellence #CoyotePride
La Joya ISD educators are invited to join Superintendent Dr. Marcey Sorensen for a series of informal, on-campus conversations designed to listen, learn, and connect.
These sessions provide an opportunity for educators to share what’s working, discuss ideas, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue about supporting our campuses and students.
✨ No presentations. No scripts. Just real conversations.
Sessions will be held at campuses across the district and are open to all La Joya ISD educators.
Statement from La Joya Independent School District - Recent Cesar Chavez Allegations
La Joya ISD is aware of recent allegations that have prompted questions and concerns within our community regarding the naming of Cesar Chavez Middle School.
We understand the significance that school names carry for our students, staff, families, and the broader community. They reflect our shared values, history, and the individuals we choose to honor as these individuals reflect our shared values and ideals as a community.
Upon our return from Spring Break, the District will take time to review all relevant information carefully and thoughtfully. We will begin an open and transparent process to engage stakeholders, provide updates, and outline next steps. Any future actions will be guided by facts, community input, and the District’s commitment to doing what is in the best interest of our students, families, and community.
La Joya ISD remains committed to maintaining a respectful, inclusive environment, where our community is included in our decisions and students feel safe and welcomed in all of our campuses. Communicating with our families and staff in a timely and transparent manner is a continued priority and we will share more as more information becomes available.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we move through this process as a community.
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Comunicado del Distrito Escolar Independiente de La Joya – Recientes Alegaciones sobre César Chávez
La Joya ISD está al tanto de las recientes alegaciones que han generado preguntas e inquietudes dentro de nuestra comunidad respecto al nombre de la Escuela Secundaria César Chávez.
Entendemos la importancia que tienen los nombres de nuestras escuelas para nuestros estudiantes, personal, familias y la comunidad en general. Estos reflejan nuestros valores compartidos, nuestra historia y a las personas que elegimos honrar, ya que representan los ideales y principios que compartimos como comunidad.
Al regresar del receso de primavera, el Distrito tomará el tiempo necesario para revisar toda la información relevante de manera cuidadosa y reflexiva. Iniciaremos un proceso abierto y transparente para involucrar a nuestros grupos de interés, proporcionar actualizaciones y delinear los próximos pasos.
Cualquier acción futura estará guiada por los hechos, la participación de la comunidad y el compromiso del Distrito de actuar en el mejor interés de nuestros estudiantes, familias y comunidad.
La Joya ISD mantiene su compromiso de fomentar un entorno respetuoso e inclusivo, donde nuestra comunidad forme parte de nuestras decisiones y donde todos los estudiantes se sientan seguros y bienvenidos en cada uno de nuestros planteles. Mantener una comunicación oportuna y transparente con nuestras familias y nuestro personal sigue siendo una prioridad, y compartiremos más información conforme esté disponible.
Agradecemos su paciencia y comprensión mientras avanzamos en este proceso como comunidad.
The La Joya High School Lady Coyotes Varsity Soccer Team is advancing to the Bi-District Playoffs and ready to give it their all on the field! 🐾⚽
Join us in wishing these talented athletes the best of luck as they take on Harlingen High School in the next round of postseason action. Let’s go, Lady Coyotes! 💪🔥
📅 March 19, 2026
⏰ 7:30 PM
📍 Harlingen High School
The La Joya High School Boys Soccer Team is advancing to the Bi-District Playoffs and ready to take on Brownsville Veterans Memorial in postseason action! 🔥💪
Let’s show our support and wish the Coyotes the best of luck as they battle for the next round. Go Coyotes! 🐾⚽
📅 March 19, 2026
⏰ 7:30 PM
📍 Sams Memorial Stadium – Brownsville, TX
Students and staff will enjoy Spring Break from March 16–20. We hope everyone takes this time to relax, recharge, and enjoy some well-deserved time with family and friends. 🌼🐝
📚 Classes resume Monday, March 23, 2026.
Have a safe and wonderful Spring Break! 🌷✨
📢 Spring Break Credit Completion Opportunity!
Mr. Salinas from CAL LAB (Room M-101) will be monitoring Edgenuity during Spring Break to unlock exams, tests, and quiz retakes for students actively working on their credits.
⏰ Check times daily: 12 PM | 3 PM | 7 PM | 11 PM
🎓 Students: Use this time to stay on track for graduation.
👨👩👧 Parents: Please encourage your child to take advantage of this opportunity.
Together, we support student success! 💪📚
#CoyotePride #LJISDLegacyOfExcellence #LaJoyaISD
La Joya Coyotes Varsity Boys and Girls Golf Teams will be competing today, Friday, March 13, 2026, at Los Lagos Golf Course, Edinburg, Texas, for the 2026 31-6A Pre-District Golf Tournament. — Good luck and Go Coyotes! Tee off is at 8:00 am.
Students and staff will enjoy Spring Break from March 16–20. We hope everyone takes this time to relax, recharge, and enjoy some well-deserved time with family and friends. 🌼🐝
📚 Classes resume Monday, March 23, 2026.
Representing different countries, our Coyotes engaged in live trading and negotiations, putting their business knowledge into action. From networking with students from other schools to making strategic deals, they experienced what it’s like to participate in the fast-paced world of international finance and economics. Opportunities like this help our students build confidence, communication skills, and a global mindset for the future.
Way to represent, Coyotes! 🐺✨
#CoyotePride #LJISDLegacyofExcellence #LaJoyaISD #GEARUPWorks #NCCEP
La Joya ISD is NOW HIRING passionate professionals in Special Education for the 2026–2027 school year! Join a team dedicated to supporting and empowering every student to succeed.
Open Positions:
✅ Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP)
✅ Speech Language Pathologist
✅ Diagnostician
💼 Competitive Salary
⭐ Excellent Benefits
🤝 Supportive Campuses & Leadership
💰 $5,000 Sign-On Bonus
If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students and families, we invite you to join the La Joya ISD team!
🔗 Visit www.lajoyaisd.com to learn more and apply.
La Joya ISD is NOW HIRING a High School Teacher / Offensive Coordinator for the 2026–2027 school year! If you’re passionate about education, leadership, and building winning teams both in the classroom and on the field, we want to hear from you.
✅ Dual Contract (Teaching + Coaching)
✅ $11,000 Coaching Stipend
✅ Competitive Teacher Salary
✅ Teacher Incentive Allotment eligibility
✅ Supportive campuses and leadership
Come make an impact with great students, great benefits, and great opportunities at La Joya ISD.
🔗 Visit www.lajoyaisd.com to learn more and apply.
Your voice matters! We invite you to participate in our Family Engagement Survey Pilot as part of the Improving Kindergarten Reading Instruments (IKRI) initiative.
This quick 10–15-minute survey is available in English and Spanish, and your responses are completely anonymous and confidential.
Your feedback will help strengthen family-school partnerships and ensure our youngest learners are supported every step of the way.
🗓️ Survey closes March 31, 2026
📱 Scan the QR code to participate today!
#LaJoyaISD #FamilyEngagement #AchievingExcellenceTogether
Daylight Saving Time begins tomorrow, Sunday, March 8.
Don’t forget to set your clocks ahead one hour before going to bed tonight.
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⏰ Recordatorio: ¡Es hora de adelantar el reloj!
El horario de verano comienza mañana, domingo 8 de marzo.
Recuerde adelantar su reloj una hora antes de acostarse esta noche.
