Secondary Experience

Harlingen offers students proximity to several leaders in the healthcare industry. From dental offices to hospitals, our students spend part of their days in real healthcare facilities working with patients, help with medical surgeries and procedures, and truly gain an authentic learning experience. HCISD partners with UTRGV to identify talented high school juniors to place on a path towards the UTRGV School of Medicine.

THE SECONDARY EXPERIENCE

6th grade through 12th grade

World Languages Academy at Vernon Middle School (Grades 6-8)

In small learning communities, students have the opportunity to study Spanish, Mandarin, French, and American Sign Language. Vernon Middle School World Languages Academy is a natural progression for students in the district’s Dual Language Academies to continue their language studies into their secondary school years. Students are inspired to identify their passions in the areas of art and science. Students can apply to three science pathways: Integrated Sciences, Math and Science combination, and Project Lead the Way. Students interested in the Arts can begin taking classes in Theatre, Technical Theatre, Dance, Graphic Arts, Piano, and Guitar.

STEM² Preparatory Academy (Grades 6-8)

The school features a small learning environment that incorporates 1:1 technology. Through interactive learning experiences, students explore science, technology, engineering, math, and biomedical sciences. This campus is powered by our Discover Education partnership.

UTRGV/Early College High School (Grades 9-12)

Partnering with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Early College High School students can graduate high school with two years of college credit. Students can concentrate on earning their basics or focus on engineering, computer science, or teaching degree paths. The campus opens Fall 2021.

The HCISD Performing Arts Center has been transformed into an artistic space for 9th through 12th-grade students. The conservatory offers classes in four professional pathways: dance, musical theatre, technical theatre, and theater. Productions are showcased to the community throughout the year.

HCISD Testing Center

HCISD students no longer have to wait and travel to out of town testing sites to take college entrance and certification exams. Our HCISD Testing Center ensures students have direct access to becoming certified in careers of their choice. This custom-built educational facility focuses on preparing students with special needs for life after high school. This facility will equip students with life and employability skills in a real-world environment. Students will spend half of the day at the house learning and developing skills and the other half at a job site through our employer program.

Athletics

Playing sports at any level can be a vital part of the school experience and have an immense and lasting impact on a student’s life. As our coaches train competitive athletes, they teach students skills they will carry well beyond the sports arena. Athletic opportunities at HCISD include baseball, basketball, volleyball, cross country, football, powerlifting, golf, tennis, track, softball, soccer, swimming, diving, and water polo.

Music

Harlingen CISD has been named a NAMM Foundation Best Communities for Music Education for three years in a row. In HCISD, we are committed to providing music access and education to all students. Band, orchestra, and choir are offered at the middle school and high school level.