Career and Postsecondary Readiness

Welcome to Volume II of South Texas ISD’s Career and Postsecondary Readiness Newsletter for 2025–2026!

We’re excited to keep the momentum going with fresh updates, useful resources, and new opportunities to help every student stay on track toward college, career, and beyond.

✅ Aim / Focus

Prepares students for careers related to the legal system — courts, legal services, support roles (e.g. paralegal, legal research, court administration), and other professions tied to understanding and applying the law.

Focused more on legal theory, legal processes, court systems, documentation, and legal writing — rather than enforcement or policing.

📚 Coursework / Structure

At STISD, the Legal Studies program includes:

Principles of Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security — introduces students to professions in law enforcement, protective services, corrections, firefighting, and emergency management services. Students will examine the roles and responsibilities of police, courts, corrections, private security, and protective agencies of fire and emergency services. The course provides students with an overview of the skills necessary for careers in law enforcement, fire service, protective services, and corrections.

Court Systems & Practices — an overview of the federal and state court systems. The course identifies the roles of judicial officers and the trial processes from pretrial to sentencing and examines the types and rules of evidence. Emphasis is placed on constitutional laws for criminal procedures such as search and seizure, stop and frisk, and interrogation.

Legal Research & Writing —an introduction to the study and practice of legal writing and research. This course is designed to introduce students to the methods and tools used to conduct legal research, develop and frame legal arguments, produce legal writings such as briefs, memorandums, and other legal documents, study U.S. Constitutional law, and prepare for appellate argument(s).

Practicum in Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security —designed to give students supervised practical application of previously studied knowledge and skills in law, public safety, corrections, and security. Practicum experiences can occur in a variety of locations appropriate to the nature and level of experience.

🎓 Outcomes & Career Pathways

Students would be prepared for legal-service occupations: paralegals, court clerks, legal assistants, or other support roles within the judicial system.

Also a solid foundation for further legal education (e.g. college-level pre-law, criminal justice, or law school), or roles in public service that involve legal documentation, research, or court procedures.

Future Plans

Paralegal / Legal Assistant Associate’s degree or certificate in paralegal/legal-studies (or bachelor’s + certificate)

• Median U.S. wage: ~ US$61,010/yr (May 2024) ; criminal-defense paralegals in Texas: ~ US$91,647/yr as of 2025 (varies widely)

Court Clerk / Court Administrative Staff High school diploma to associate/certificate; some on-the-job training or internships via program practicum

• Varies widely; many support / clerk roles tend to be lower than paralegal — often in range of US$35,000–50,000/yr depending on location and duties

Legal/Administrative Support in Government or Public Service (e.g. working in prosecutors’ offices, legal-aid organizations, public-sector admin) Similar to above (associate/certificate, possibly bachelor's)

• With experience (or in specialized roles), pay may rise; some government paralegal roles in Texas public agencies pay in mid-$50,000s to mid-$70,000s.

✅ Aim / Focus

Prepares students for careers in public safety, policing, corrections, forensic investigation, and related criminal justice roles.

Emphasis is on law-enforcement duties: enforcing laws, responding to violations, investigating crimes, and understanding how criminal law and public safety systems operate.

📚 Coursework / Structure

At STISD, the Law Enforcement Program consists of:

Principles of Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security — introduces students to professions in law enforcement, protective services, corrections, firefighting, and emergency management services. Students will examine the roles and responsibilities of police, courts, corrections, private security, and protective agencies of fire and emergency services. The course provides students with an overview of the skills necessary for careers in law enforcement, fire service, protective services, and corrections.

Law Enforcement I & Forensic Psychology — an overview of the history, organization, and functions of local, state, and federal law enforcement. Students will understand the role of constitutional law at local, state, and federal levels; the U.S. legal system; criminal law; and law enforcement terminology and the classification and elements of crime.

Law Enforcement II & Forensic Science — provides the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare for a career in law enforcement. Students will understand ethical and legal responsibilities, patrol procedures, first responder roles, telecommunications, emergency equipment operations, and courtroom testimony.

Practicum in Law, Public Safety and Corrections — designed to give students supervised practical application of previously studied knowledge and skills in law, public safety, corrections, and security. Practicum experiences can occur in a variety of locations appropriate to the nature and level of experience.

🎓 Outcomes & Career Pathways

Students completing this program are well prepared for careers as law enforcement officers, corrections officers, forensic science technicians, dispatchers, or other public safety roles. This aligns with statewide objectives for “public service endorsement.”

Future Plans

Police Officer / Patrol Officer / Sheriff’s Deputy After high school or CTE-program — often need to complete police academy or criminal justice program / training.

• Median salary ~ US$76,350/yr in Texas (varies by city/department).

Corrections Officer / Jailer / Correctional Facility Staff Many correctional roles hire with high school diploma + CTE or criminal justice credentials; additional facility-specific training required.

• Median ~ US$51,020/yr in Texas for correctional officers/jailers.

Forensic Science Technician / Crime-Scene / Investigation Support Often requires post-secondary courses (forensics, criminal justice, sometimes bachelor-level) depending on complexity and employer.

• National (or broad) typical pay: often mid-50Ks; specific roles vary widely based on skill, employer, specialization.

Emergency/Public Safety Dispatch, Security, Support Roles Entry-level + on-the-job training possible; CTE background + certifications can help.

• Entry-level pay is modest (varies greatly); more experienced / certified staff tend to earn more, especially in larger jurisdictions or with overtime.

• Required STAAR Tests for Graduation

  • Students must pass five End-of-Course (EOC) exams:
    Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology, and U.S. History.

  When Students Take STAAR EOCs

  • EOCs are given three times a year: Spring, Summer, and Fall.

  • Students test as soon as they finish the course (usually spring).

  • Students in accelerated or nontraditional schedules may test in a different administration.

  • Missing the spring test may delay retesting until December, months after completing the course.

  Number of Opportunities to Pass

  • Students have three chances each year to take each EOC.

  • Total opportunities depend on when the course is taken:

    • Biology in 9th grade → up to 10 attempts before graduation

    • U.S. History in 11th grade → about 4 attempts

  • Students can continue testing even after their scheduled graduation year, if needed.

  Retesting Rules
  

  • Passed EOC but failed the course: No retest required; EOC requirement is complete.

  • Failed both course and EOC: Student may retest in any future administration without repeating the course first.

  STAAR Performance & Reporting

  Performance Categories

  • Masters Grade Level (passing)

  • Meets Grade Level (passing)

  • Approaches Grade Level (passing – minimum to graduate)

  • Did Not Meet Grade Level (not passing)

  Passing Standard

  • A score of Approaches Grade Level or higher = passing.

  Understanding Scale Scores

  • STAAR uses scale scores instead of raw scores to account for question difficulty.

  • Raw scores may change slightly each year; passing standards stay the same.

  Why Not a 70% Passing Rule?

  • A straight percentage does not reflect question difficulty.

  • Scale scores provide a fair, consistent measure of mastery across different test versions.

  How Students & Parents Access Test Results

  • Results are available in the Texas Assessment Family Portal.

  • Families can view:

    • Scores and performance levels

    • Released test questions

    • Correct answers and explanations

    • Previous year results

  • Access requires the student’s unique code found on the STAAR Report Card.

  How Schools Access Reporting Data

• Districts and teachers use the Centralized Reporting System (CRS) for detailed analysis of:

• Current and past scores

• Campus, district, and state comparisons

• Demographic and program-based reporting

For more information and answers to frequently asked questions click below.

How do I find scholarships?

You can discover scholarship opportunities by reaching out to the financial aid office at your chosen school, visiting your local library, or searching online. Just be cautious—ensure that any scholarship offers are legitimate, and remember that you shouldn't have to pay for scholarship or financial aid information. For tips on avoiding scams, check this link. avoid scams.

Try these free sources of information about scholarships:

• the financial aid office at a college or career school

• a high school or TRIO counselor

• the U.S. Department of Labor’s FREE scholarship search tool

• federal agencies

• your state grant agency

• your library’s reference section

• foundations, religious or community organizations, local businesses, or civic groups

• organizations (including professional associations) related to your field of interest

• ethnicity-based organizations

• your employer or your parents’ employers

• Description: Rice University automatically considers all admitted freshmen for merit-based scholarships, which may cover up to the full cost of attendance.
• Eligibility: Texas high school seniors must gain admission to Rice; scholarship awards are based solely on academic merit and holistic review (GPA, rigor, achievements). Financial need is not part of the consideration.
• Deadline: Regular Decision deadline is January 1, 2026.
• Website: See Rice University’s admission pages for Rice-specific merit scholarship policies.

Scholarship Description

The Dr. Juan Andrade Jr. Scholarship for Young Hispanic Leaders, administered by the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute (USHLI), is a distinguished program recognizing and supporting students who embody the spirit of servant leadership. With a commitment to advancing the educational aspirations of Hispanic students, this scholarship provides financial assistance and an opportunity to attend the USHLI National Conference.

Scholarship Details

• Undergrad recipients will receive a non-renewable scholarship:
• $1,000 for those attending a 4-year institution
• $500 for those attending a 2-year institution
• Complimentary registration to attend the USHLI National Conference, including airfare and lodging.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be enrolled or accepted as full-time undergraduate students in an accredited four-year or two-year institution in the U.S. or U.S. territories.
• Verifiable need for financial support.
• At least one parent must be of Hispanic ancestry.
• Non-U.S. citizens, including DACA or undocumented students, are eligible.
• Full-time undergraduate status for the coming Fall – Spring academic year.
• Open to high school seniors, college freshmen, sophomores, and juniors up to age 25.

Application Process

1. Background Essay: Share your background, family history, life experiences, and significant achievements. Discuss any obstacles or challenges you've overcome (500-1,000 words).
2. Leadership Essay: Explore the future of Latinos/Hispanics in America, the needed leadership, and your envisioned role in providing such leadership. Explain how this benefits your community and suggest how USHLI can support your goals (500-1,000 words).
3. Optional Essay: Provide additional information relevant to your scholarship application.
4. Submit Portrait Picture (High-resolution, color, suitable headshot, 2.5 x 3.5 ratios, PNG, JPG, or GIF).
5. Submit Resume (One-page PDF outlining work experience, academic achievements, and relevant information).
6. Submit Unofficial Transcript (Most updated transcript, PDF format).
7. Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must submit two (2) letters of recommendation that meet the following requirements: letters should focus on the applicant’s leadership abilities and past academic performance, while also indicating an ability or desire to effectively serve their community.

The GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program offers college scholarships of up to $40,000 for high school seniors nationwide who showcase leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship. Easy to apply and will change students’ lives.

Scholarship Details

$10,000 renewable scholarship (up to $40,000 total per student)

Funds may be used for tuition, fees, books, supplies, and on-campus room and board

Winners attend an exclusive, all-expenses-paid Scholars Retreat in California

Ongoing support and mentorship throughout college and beyond

Eligibility Criteria

Must demonstrate leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship in school, work, and community settings

Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale

Must be a U.S. citizen

Must be a current high school senior in the U.S., U.S. territories, commonwealths, or on U.S. Armed Forces bases abroad

Must plan to enroll full-time at an accredited four-year U.S. college or university

Application Process

1. Complete the online application with personal, academic, and financial details
2. List extracurricular activities and community service involvement
3. Describe any paid work experience
4. Submit an essay on your leadership and service experiences
5. Write a personal goals statement
6. For semifinalists:

• Submit a high school transcript
• Provide one recommendation letter
• Submit financial documentation
• Write a values-based personal statement

GE-Reagan Foundation Scholars are among America’s foremost young leaders who personify the values that President Reagan took to Washington and inspired a nation with three decades ago. Like President Reagan, candidates use the formative experiences of their youth to lead, serve and pursue a life of purpose and significance, both individually and for their communities.

Scholarship Description

The John F. Kennedy Library Foundation invites U.S. high school students to describe and analyze an act of political courage by a U.S. elected official who served during or after 1917, the year John F. Kennedy was born.

Scholarship Details

• Required essay of 700 to 1,000 words
• Essay must be the student’s original work
• A minimum of five varied sources, such as government documents, letters, newspaper articles, books, and/or personal interviews, must be used

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to high school students in grades 9-12, including correspondence/GED programs and U.S. citizens attending schools overseas.
• Previous winners and finalists are not eligible.
• Employees of John Hancock Financial Services and their families are ineligible.

Application Process

1. Write an original essay analyzing an act of political courage by a U.S. elected official who served during or after 1917.
2. Ensure the essay is between 700 and 1,000 words and includes a minimum of five varied sources.
3. Essays must be submitted by the due date at 11:59 PM (EST).

The contest is open to United States high school students in grades nine through twelve attending public, private, parochial, or home schools; US students under the age of twenty enrolled in a high school correspondence/GED program; and US citizens attending schools overseas.

Scholarship Description

The Atkins Educational Foundation commits to providing financial and personal support for first-generation female college students. We believe educating a woman not only allows her to improve her future but to change the trajectory of her family for generations to come. We achieve this goal by closing the gap between the aid she has received and the true cost of attending college. Our purpose is to provide resources and guidance throughout the student’s university experience from acceptance through graduation.

Scholarship Details

• Recipient: First-generation female college students
• Purpose: Closing the financial gap for college attendance

Eligibility Criteria

• Recipient Criteria:
  • Must be a first-generation female student entering freshman year
  • First-generation is defined as a student whose parents, grandparents, and siblings did not attend college
• Residency: Must be a Florida resident applying to a 4-year, public in-state university

• • Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
  • Submit a Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA)
  • Apply to at least two other external scholarships

Application Process

1. Ensure you meet the recipient criteria as a first-generation female student
2. Be a Florida resident applying to a 4-year, public in-state university
3. Complete and submit the required Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA)

Please double check your application to confirm all required materials are attached before submitting. Incomplete applications will immediately disqualify you from consideration.

Building Strong People Skills

People skills—like communicating clearly, working with others, and resolving conflicts—are important for success in school and life. Even if you’re shy or learning from home, these skills can be learned and strengthened over time. Experts agree that developing emotional awareness, self-control, and relationship skills helps students feel more confident and perform better in all areas of school.

What Are People Skills?

People skills include:

• Respectful communication

• Active listening

• Conflict resolution

• Problem solving

• Collaboration

• Social-emotional learning (SEL)

Building these skills helps you make friends, work better in groups, and understand your own emotions.

Why They Matter

Strong interpersonal skills help you:

• Feel a sense of belonging

• Connect with people who share your interests

• Build friendships

• Improve your mood and confidence

• Communicate better at school, at home, and in the community

Easy Ways to Practice People Skills

Whether you're on campus or learning at home, you can build these skills through fun activities such as:

• Communication games like Pictionary

• Team-building activities that require group problem-solving

• Play and group games that help you interact naturally

• Active-listening practice, like taking turns sharing stories

Get Involved: Grow Your Skills

Looking to boost your people skills even more? Try:

• Joining a club that matches your interests

• Volunteering in your community

• Participating in community activities like sports, art workshops, or youth programs

Getting involved helps you meet new people, grow your confidence, and have fun along the way!

Building Emotional Intelligence: A Skill That Helps You Everywhere

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is all about understanding your feelings, managing them, and noticing how others feel too. These skills can help you handle stress, improve friendships, and prepare for life after high school.

1. Talk About Your Emotions

One of the best ways to build EQ is simply talking about how you feel. Try using phrases like “I felt ___ because ___” when sharing about your day. Naming emotions helps you understand them—and makes it easier to manage tough situations.

2. Build Self-Awareness

Once you can recognize your emotions, you’ll start to notice patterns. For example, maybe meeting new people makes you nervous, or big tests make you stressed. Being aware of this helps you prepare ahead of time and respond in healthier ways.

3. Learn to Manage Big Emotions

Everyone handles strong emotions differently, and that’s okay. Try tools like:

• Mindfulness apps (Calm, Smiling Mind)

• Mood-tracking apps (MoodKit)

• Music playlists that match or improve your mood

• Creative outlets like drawing, gaming, sports, or playing music
  The goal is to recognize when you’re overwhelmed and use healthy strategies to calm down.

4. Practice Good Listening

EQ isn’t just about your emotions—it’s also about understanding others. You can show empathy by truly listening, even if you don’t have all the answers. Sometimes people just need someone to sit with them and let them talk.
Listening shows respect, builds stronger friendships, and helps you support others without carrying their emotions yourself.

5. Keep Practicing

Emotional intelligence takes time to build, just like any other skill. The more you practice naming your feelings, preparing for emotional situations, and listening to others, the more confident and steady you’ll become.

Building your EQ now can make school, relationships, and future jobs much smoother—and help you grow into a more resilient, self-aware adult.

District Website: www.stisd.net

Facebook: www.stisd.net/about/cte

It is the policy of South Texas Independent School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap in its vocational programs, services or activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

Es norma del Distrito Independiente de South Texas de no discriminar en sus programas, servicios o actividades vocacionales y brinda igualdad de acceso a los Boy Scouts y otros grupos juveniles designados por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo o impedimento, tal como lo requieren el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, según enmienda; Título IX de las Enmiendas en la Educación de 1972, y la Sección 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973, según enmienda.