Both these schools are located in a community that posses some of the highest rates of poverty and lowest levels of education attainment in the nation. These schools serve as a shining example to our nation that when students are provided with the right opportunities they can excel despite whatever socioeconomic challenges they must overcome. 

A quality, comprehensive and challenging education is the most valuable gift we can give to our children.  This is the third time schools from the South Texas Independent School District have received this prestigious recognition – and it solidifies their standing as a model of excellence and a community that crafts exemplary institutions.  The teachers and administrators of this district are truly committed to educating and encouraging our future leaders.

As the country continues to move forward into the 21st century, the need for mathematicians, doctors, scientists, nurses, engineers and the leaders of tomorrow continues to be of the utmost importance – and a high school diploma is the first step to becoming a successful contributor to society. 

The programs of study at these high schools ensure that students graduate ready to succeed in college, and more importantly they help students secure the building blocks  that lead to successful lives and careers.  Their story is truly inspiring.

I would also like to congratulate Superintendent Marla Guerra, as well as the members of the school board of trustees, the faculty, students, parents and alumni on 40 years of achievement.  This school district demonstrates a regional commitment to excellence.  The recognition that these two high schools have received is just one of many accolades earned by the South Texas Independent School District.

My involvement in establishing the magnet high school system for South Texas is one of my proudest achievements.  Over 20 years ago, as a member of the Texas State Board of Education, I led a delegation from South Texas to Houston to visit that city’s highly regarded magnet schools. 

We knew that we wanted that caliber of opportunity for our students.  However, we were told that such a program could not work in South Texas.  We were told that we did not have the financial resources and that we could not find the students.   But we did not believe the nay-sayers.  We knew it could be done.

Today, two South Texas magnet high schools, with student populations that are almost 80 percent Hispanic and over 50 percent eligible for free or reduced priced lunched, are among the most elite high schools in the nation.  Every day, they bring students and observers closer to realizing the vast potential of our community.  They are a model of what is possible when we invest in our children and demand the very best.

I ask all of my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Science Academy of South Texas and the South Texas High School for Health Professions on a job well done.