Boerne ISD utilizes state funding support for healthcare program

Boerne ISD was one of five San Antonio area schools to receive the Jobs and Education for Texans grant, which was awarded through the Texas Workforce Commission and announced by Governor Greg Abbott’s office.

The overview

According to a May 8 news release, the $1.5 million in funding was allocated to the following schools:

• Alamo Colleges District-San Antonio College: a $332,507 grant to train 250 students as software developers.
• Boerne ISD: a $319,709 grant to train 200 students as registered nurses in partnership with Alamo Colleges District-San Antonio College.
• Cotulla ISD: a $350,000 grant to train 25 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in partnership with Southwest Texas Junior College.
• Dilley ISD: a $179,403 grant to train 76 students as welders in partnership with Southwest Texas Junior College.
• Harmony Schools South Texas: a $350,000 grant to train 100 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in partnership with Texas Southmost College.

“As the Texas economy continues to reach greater heights, it is critical that we keep investing in our future workforce,” Governor Abbott said in the release. “The more than $1.5 million in career training grants will support career and technical training programs for Texas students in the San Antonio area—helping them forge their own path to a better job and bigger paycheck opportunity after graduation. I thank the Texas Workforce Commission for their tireless work to bolster our highly skilled workforce and ensure Texas students have successful careers in high-demand industries.”

What’s happening

Boerne ISD Executive Director of Communications Maggie Dominguez said the grant funds were already received and spent, with the district reporting funding used during a May 8 conference.

According to Career and Technical Education Director Heather Willis, the funding was used to purchase multiple pieces of medical grade equipment including:

• A virtual anatomy table
• Phlebotomy arms
• Phlebotomy hand
• Phlebotomy chairs
• Programmable manikins

Through the Pathways in Technology Early College High School, or P-Tech program, Boerne ISD students interested in healthcare can earn an associate’s degree from San Antonio College. Certifications for Clinical Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy and Electrocardiogram are also accessible to students.

During the 2024-25 school year, 200 students were in the program, with an additional 150 students anticipated to join in the next school year.