Regional symposia focus primarily on adult literacy, and provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit, community-based adult and family literacy programs.
Your local symposium is an excellent place to network with other literacy providers in your region, and a great source of professional development for volunteer and other instructors, as well as administrative staff.
Thank you so much for your interest!
This event is now over.
QUICK LINKS FOR THE 2026 SOUTH TEXAS SYMPOSIUM:
Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section, or simply scroll down the page.
BASIC DETAILS
The 2026 South Texas Literacy Symposium is presented by Literacy Texas and PossAble Dream Adult High School.
It will be a full-day symposium, and will be held on:
Friday, November 6, 2026
8:15 AM to 3:30 PM (CT)
DoubleTree McAllen
Check-in for pre-registered participants will open at 8:15 AM, with the full program starting promptly at 8:30 AM.
This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information.
SYMPOSIUM FAQs
Click on a question to see the answer.
Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"?
A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer.
Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference.
Each symposium:
- Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travel
- Has a local focus
- Is free to attend
- Generally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)
- Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administrators
- Is the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteers
- Offers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development, sometimes more
Q: Who should attend this symposium?
A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits.
Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome!
When we create the symposium program, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education, English as an additional language, high school equivalency, digital literacy, and workforce readiness, along with other kinds of teaching and learning.
Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend?
A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.
Q: Why should I attend?
Two words: LOCAL + FREE!
Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed.
Furthermore, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.
Q: How much does registration cost?
A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition, any meals and snacks offered, materials, and other resources.
Please be aware that in recent years, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food, materials, and more).
If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration.
Q: Do you offer PD credit?
A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL.
You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium.
VENUE DETAILS
LOCATION, MAP, AND PARKING
DoubleTree McAllen
VENUE FLOORPLAN
The symposium will use Valencia and Marrs (marked in red above) for plenary sessions, and Rio, Ruby, and Royal I (marked in blue above) for breakout sessions.
FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION
This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.
Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.
Registration for this session has now closed
REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM
Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!
Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 512-559-1325 to make arrangements.
PD CERTIFICATES
Attendees can receive up to 5.5 hours of PD credit at this symposium.
You must use the Literacy Texas app to track your session attendance if you want to receive PD credit. Information about how to access and use the app will be sent to registrants ahead of the symposium.
Certificates of completion will be sent via email in the weeks after the event to anyone who tracked their sessions in the Literacy Texas app.
SCHEDULE OUTLINE
8:15 AM – 8:30 AM | Check-in for pre-registered attendees; breakfast
8:30 AM – 9:20 AM | Welcome & The Literacy Ecosystem (0.5 PD hours)
9:25 AM –10:55 AM | Breakout #1 (1.5 PD hours)
11:05 AM –12:35 PM | Breakout #2 (1.5 PD hours)
12:45 PM – 1:50 PM | Working Lunch + Panel Discussion (1 PD hour)
1:50 PM – 2:10 PM | “The 20-Minute Mission” – Meet the Exhibitors
2:20 PM – 3:20 PM | “Your Move” – Action Planning (1 PD hour)
3:20 PM – 3:30 PM | Farewell, door prizes
Total PD available: 5.5 hours
PROGRAM, SESSIONS, & SPEAKERS
Program is in progress; additional details will be added here as they’re confirmed.
Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates
8:15 AM – 8:30 AM: CHECK-IN, BREAKFAST
LOCATION: VALENCIA/MARRS
8:30 AM – 9:20 AM: WELCOME & THE LITERACY ECOSYSTEM
LOCATION: VALENCIA/MARRS
“Together for Literacy” – The Literacy Ecosystem
(0.25 hours PD)
In this opening segment, Literacy Texas introduces the literacy ecosystem: the many teachers and tutors, volunteers, community programs, libraries, adult education providers, workforce partners, and others who support adults along their learning journeys.
Every part of the ecosystem plays a valuable role – especially teachers, who are often closest to learners and among the first to recognize their needs.
Together, we’ll explore where each of us fits within this broader ecosystem and how a more connected literacy community can help us better serve learners.
Katie Welch, Ph.D.
Executive Director, Literacy Texas
Katie Welch, Ph.D., serves as Executive Director of Literacy Texas. Throughout her career, she has combined educational leadership with the preparation and support of language educators, including directing UTA’s intensive English program for international students and serving as president and treasurer of TexTESOL V. Katie brings nearly two decades of higher education experience preparing language educators at UTA and the UNT-Dallas and is a frequent state, national, and international speaker. She is a twice-selected U.S. Department of State English Language Specialist, the 2024 TexTESOLer of the Year, and a member of the 2026 COABE National Presenter Network.
“Regional Asset Mapping” – The Local Ecosystem
(0.25 hours PD)
Participants will help build a visual map of the organizations and resources serving adult learners across the region.
Using an asset-based approach, we’ll identify who’s in the room, discover resources and programs we may not know about, and begin building a clearer picture of our regional literacy network.
Dr. Ceci Gomez
Dr. Ceci Gomez is an educator, counselor, and community leader with more than 36 years of experience serving students and families throughout South Texas. She currently serves as the Site Coordinator and Dean of Academics at PossAble Dream Adult High School, where she oversees daily campus operations, academic programming, student support services, and community partnerships for adult learners pursuing a traditional high school diploma and industry-based certifications. Under her leadership, the campus experienced rapid enrollment growth during its inaugural year, reflecting her strong commitment to expanding educational opportunities for underserved populations.
Prior to her current role, Dr. Gomez served at Region One Education Service Center in both the Office of College, Career, and Life Readiness and the Mental Health Department, where she worked as both a specialist and coordinator. During her time at Region One, she facilitated numerous workshops and professional development sessions focused on mental health awareness, college and career readiness, student support systems, and educational leadership. She holds certifications in AS+K About Suicide Awareness and Psychological First Aid.
Dr. Gomez earned a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a minor in English, a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling, and a Principal Certification from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She later earned a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Higher Education from the same institution. She is currently pursuing an Executive Master in Public Leadership at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin.
9:25 AM – 10:55 AM
Breakout #1
(1.5 hours PD)
LOCATION: RIO
The FREE Texas Digital Literacy Toolkit
This session will introduce participants to the Texas Digital Literacy Toolkit by demonstrating several lessons. Participants will use their own devices to participate in live activities, before exploring subsections of the toolkit to learn more about their organization and content.
Participants will learn how the material can be used in the classroom or individually with students, and will then be asked to consider what materials they would adopt to use as is versus what they would adapt to suit the circumstances of their class, all with the goal of having something they can put to use immediately.
Through this workshop, we’ll explore ways to engage students and educate them on a variety of different subjects and durable skills embedded in digital literacy.
The toolkit includes Computer Basics, Internet Safety and Cybersecurity, Email, Microsoft Word and Google Docs, Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets, and Online Job Search. Different modalities for how to use the lesson materials will be demonstrated, including in person paper-based activities, online and flex learning activities, and remote learning activities, including a demonstration of how to use the educational videos through the interactive video resource and activity website Edpuzzle.
Participants will then explore the student and teacher resources on the Digital Literacy Toolkit website with a choiceboard activity before responding in person or with a padlet activity. In this way, participants will be able to engage with the content in as many ways as an instructor can engage students with the toolkit!
Primary Topic Area
Session will also cover:
Audience
Level
Texas AEL PD Category
Assigned by TCALL
Other info:
We’ll refer to this website throughout the session: Digital Literacy Toolkit
Gareth Wingfield
Gareth Wingfield is a life-long adult educator. He has more than 20 years of experience with English as a Second Language and High School Equivalency instruction, and served as a full time adult educator in both area over the course of 17 years. During that time he also developed a specialty as a math tutor and trainer of teachers, as well as serving as distance learning coordinator.
He served as a program coordinator for the Distance Education Professional Development Center before transitioning, where he helped develop trainings and presentations as well as leading the development of the Digital Literacy Toolkit before transitioning to a Professional Development Specialist position with the Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL).
LOCATION: RUBY
Implementing Effective Grouping Protocols for Instruction & Cooperative Learning Instruction
This session is designed to equip adult learners and educators with practical strategies for implementing effective grouping protocols that support adult learners, enhance instruction, and promote collaboration.
Participants will explore research-based approaches to forming flexible, purposeful groups that address diverse learning needs, prior knowledge and individual strengths.
Recognizing that adult learners bring diverse life experiences, professional backgrounds and cultural perspectives, participants will explore how intentional grouping can leverage these strengths to create meaningful and relevant learning experiences. Through interactive activities, collaborative discussions, and real-world instructional scenarios, learners will examine how intentional grouping supports active engagement, accountability, peer-to-peer learning, and meaningful participation.
The session will highlight strategies for promoting collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, and engagement while respecting adult learners’ independence, goals, and learning preferences. Participants will examine how to establish clear group expectations, assign collaborative roles, facilitate productive interactions, monitor group progress, and foster shared accountability.
Emphasis will be placed on adapting grouping strategies to various instructional settings, including adult education, professional learning, and workforce development.
By the end of the session, participants will be able to identify appropriate grouping protocols, apply cooperative learning structures, strengthen collaboration and promote practical application to support engagement and success of all learners, including adult learners.
Primary Topic Area
Session will also cover:
Audience
Level
Texas AEL PD Category
Assigned by TCALL
Other info:
No other info available at this time.
Dr. Isela Almaguer
Educational Consultant & Professor of Reading and Literacy, UTRGV
Dr. Isela Almaguer is a Full Professor and former Endowed Chair in Education at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley where she serves as the Graduate Program Coordinator for the Reading and Literacy Program.
With over 30 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Almaguer teaches courses in all aspects of reading and literacy including at the masters and doctoral level. Additionally, as researcher and Educational Consultant her expertise centers on reading and literacy, biliteracy, multicultural teaching and learning frameworks and culturally empowering pedagogical practices in dual language settings. She actively engages in issues involving literacy and biliteracy development of emergent bilinguals, second language acquisition of bilingual learners, community advocacy and language issues impacting Latino students.
Dr. Almaguer actively disseminates her research through national and international presentations and publications in various refereed scholarly venues.
11:05 AM – 12:35 PM
Breakout #2
(1.5 hours PD)
LOCATION: RUBY
Bouncing Back: Creating a Culture of Resilience in Your Classroom
Resilience is often described as the ability to “bounce back” from difficult circumstances.
How “bouncy” are your students?
How “bouncy” are you?
Using the playful metaphor of bouncy balls, this interactive session explores how educators can cultivate a culture of resilience within adult education programs where both teachers and students feel empowered to persist despite challenges.
Participants will reflect on their own “adversity quotient” as educators and also consider the academic, linguistic, and personal obstacles their students encounter. Together, we will examine how the language acquisition process itself develops resilience and discuss intentional ways teachers can use language to nurture a growth mindset.
Attendees will leave with practical, easy-to-implement strategies for promoting resilience and perseverance in their classrooms and programs.
Primary Topic Area
Session will also cover:
Audience
Level
Texas AEL PD Category
Assigned by TCALL
Other info:
No other info available at this time.
Katie Welch, Ph.D.
Executive Director, Literacy Texas
Katie Welch, Ph.D., serves as Executive Director of Literacy Texas. Throughout her career, she has combined educational leadership with the preparation and support of language educators, including directing UTA’s intensive English program for international students and serving as president and treasurer of TexTESOL V. Katie brings nearly two decades of higher education experience preparing language educators at UTA and the UNT-Dallas and is a frequent state, national, and international speaker. She is a twice-selected U.S. Department of State English Language Specialist, the 2024 TexTESOLer of the Year, and a member of the 2026 COABE National Presenter Network.
LOCATION: RIO
AI and Math Instruction
For many of our students and teachers, math is a source of deep anxiety. This may stem from negative experiences throughout their life and education, leading to the idea they are not “math people” and they can never improve. When this feeling takes root in teachers, they feel unprepared to help their students in one of the most important areas of their high school equivalency.
AI has contributed to many advancements in mathematics, from disproving conjectures to finishing decades old proofs. But how useful is it in a classroom? Can it help with this significant problem by helping instructors and students alike face their anxiety and become” math people?”
In this interactive session, we’ll take a look at how math anxiety manifests in the classroom, and look at ways that instructors can use artificial intelligence to handle challenging topics. Attendees will leave with multiple ideas for how they can use AI to reduce math anxiety for their students and themselves.
As part of this presentation, participants will discuss their relative levels of math comfort and math anxiety. Participants will discuss how “math people” and non-”math people” differ and what, if anything, might be valuable to recognize in those distinctions.
Then participants will move into what AI is and what it isn’t. We’ll address the difference between language prediction models and computational engines. We’ll look at how AI can hallucinate math logical errors with absolute confidence. From this will move to the practice of using multiple tools for verification.
Shifting from a focus on “solving problems” to “verifying solutions,” participants will look at multiple tools that can help design lessons to engage critical thinking in students. Using free tools, participants will make visuals and predict misconceptions so they can help address gaps in learning. Participants will also practice with tools that can provide a “Socratic tutor” that can guide them through strategies and ways of thinking so they can use AI as a coach to fill in what they’re missing instead of just going for an easy answer. Participants will apply a “Two Tool Rule” to verify what their “coach” is saying and then discuss how to best employ these tools and rules in their own classroom environments.
Primary Topic Area
Session will also cover:
Audience
Level
Texas AEL PD Category
Assigned by TCALL
Other info:
No other info available at this time.
Gareth Wingfield
Gareth Wingfield is a life-long adult educator. He has more than 20 years of experience with English as a Second Language and High School Equivalency instruction, and served as a full time adult educator in both area over the course of 17 years. During that time he also developed a specialty as a math tutor and trainer of teachers, as well as serving as distance learning coordinator.
He served as a program coordinator for the Distance Education Professional Development Center before transitioning, where he helped develop trainings and presentations as well as leading the development of the Digital Literacy Toolkit before transitioning to a Professional Development Specialist position with the Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL).
LOCATION: ROYAL 1
From Goals to Growth: Making Learning Visible and Building Learner Ownership in Adult Literacy
How can educators help adult learners move beyond completing tasks to recognizing their progress and taking ownership of their learning?
In this interactive session, participants will explore practical strategies for connecting meaningful learning goals to everyday instruction, making learner growth visible, and using reflection to guide next steps. Participants will learn how educators and learners can work together to identify strengths, recognize areas of need, and make informed decisions that support continued growth.
Through hands-on activities and real-world learning scenarios, participants will experience strategies for meaningful goal setting, learner reflection, and progress monitoring. The session will also explore how simple, adaptable tools can help educators collect evidence of learning, guide meaningful conversations, and make intentional instructional decisions.
This session will provide practical approaches and resources that participants can apply in their own settings to strengthen instruction, support learner growth, and build learner ownership.
Primary Topic Area
Session will also cover:
Audience
Level
Texas AEL PD Category
Assigned by TCALL
A note from the presenter:
Participants are encouraged to bring a laptop or tablet to explore practical tools for tracking learner growth and supporting reflection. Come ready to participate in hands-on activities and share instructional ideas!
Karla Rodriguez, MBA
Curriculum, Instruction, Growth & Development, CONTENTBYK
also representing South Texas Literacy Coalition
Karla Rodriguez is an educational leader committed to shaping meaningful learning experiences through her work in curriculum, instruction, and professional development. With over a decade of experience spanning the classroom to campus leadership, she currently serves as a Reading Language Arts Curriculum Coordinator, where she supports and develops educators in creating purposeful, high-impact learning environments. Her work has been recognized at the district level through the Building Capacity Award, reflecting her impact in developing educators and strengthening instructional practices.
Grounded in the belief that literacy builds stronger communities, she serves as a Board Member of the South Texas Literacy Coalition, expanding access and opportunity through her work beyond the classroom.
Karla is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership at Texas Tech University, furthering her commitment to educational research, instructional innovation, and meaningful learning experiences.
She is also the creator of CONTENTBYK, a space where education, reflection, and creativity intersect. Through this platform, Karla transforms her expertise into a form of ongoing professional development—sharing insights, experiences, and perspectives that invite learners to grow with intention, reflect deeply, and reconnect with the purpose behind their work.
12:45 PM – 1:50 PM: WORKING LUNCH
LOCATION: VALENCIA/MARRS
Panel Discussion
(1 hour PD)
“Connecting the Dots: Adult Literacy and Workforce Development in the South Texas Region”
This panel discussion will focus on the critical intersection between adult education, workforce training, and regional economic needs.
The conversation will highlight how collaboration among education providers, workforce partners, and community organizations can strengthen career pathways, support adult learners, and meet the evolving demands of the South Texas workforce.
PANEL MODERATOR
Dr. Ceci Gomez
Site Coordinator and Dean of Academics, PossAble Dream Adult High School
Dr. Ceci Gomez is an educator, counselor, and community leader with more than 36 years of experience serving students and families throughout South Texas. She currently serves as the Site Coordinator and Dean of Academics at PossAble Dream Adult High School, where she oversees daily campus operations, academic programming, student support services, and community partnerships for adult learners pursuing a traditional high school diploma and industry-based certifications. Under her leadership, the campus experienced rapid enrollment growth during its inaugural year, reflecting her strong commitment to expanding educational opportunities for underserved populations.
Prior to her current role, Dr. Gomez served at Region One Education Service Center in both the Office of College, Career, and Life Readiness and the Mental Health Department, where she worked as both a specialist and coordinator. During her time at Region One, she facilitated numerous workshops and professional development sessions focused on mental health awareness, college and career readiness, student support systems, and educational leadership. She holds certifications in AS+K About Suicide Awareness and Psychological First Aid.
Dr. Gomez earned a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a minor in English, a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling, and a Principal Certification from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She later earned a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Higher Education from the same institution. She is currently pursuing an Executive Master in Public Leadership at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin.
PANELIST
Eladio Jaimez
Associate Provost Community Relations, Texas State Technical College
Board Member, Harlingen CISD Board of Trustees
Eladio Jaimez is a native of Harlingen, Texas, and has served as Associate Provost of Community Relations at Texas State Technical College (TSTC) since 2024. In this role, he leads community engagement initiatives, develops strategic partnerships, and advances the college’s outreach efforts across the communities it serves.
Prior to TSTC, Jaimez served as a Communications Consultant for AEP Texas, where he was the company’s spokesperson and led both internal and external communications strategies from 2015 to 2024.
Jaimez began his professional career in journalism as a Sports Writer for the Valley Morning Star, where he covered high school and collegiate athletics from 2002 to 2012. During his journalism career, he earned statewide recognition for his work, including the Associated Press Media Editors (APME) Sports Writing Award in 2011. He was also twice nominated for the Texas High School Coaches Association Putt Powell Sportswriter of the Year Award.
A dedicated public servant, Jaimez has served on the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees since 2016. During his tenure, he has held the positions of board secretary, vice president, and currently serves as board president. In 2019, he was part of the leadership team recognized as the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) Board of the Year. He was also selected to participate in the prestigious Leadership TASB Class of 2024, a statewide leadership program offered by the Texas Association of School Boards.
Beyond his professional and educational leadership roles, Jaimez is actively involved in community service. He serves on the Board of Directors for both The Family Crisis Center of the Rio Grande Valley and Loaves and Fishes of the Rio Grande Valley, organizations dedicated to supporting families and individuals throughout the region. He was also recently appointed to the RGV Partnership Board of Directors.
PANELIST
Daniel P. King, Ph.D.
Executive Director, Region One Education Service Center
Founder and Board President, The PossAble Dream Foundation
Dr. Daniel P. King is a visionary educational leader, trailblazer, and innovator whose career spanning five decades has been dedicated to transforming public education, expanding opportunities, and improving the lives of students and families throughout South Texas. As Executive Director of Region One Education Service Center, Dr. King continues to champion educational excellence, equity, and innovative solutions that strengthen communities and create pathways to economic prosperity.
A longtime public school superintendent, Dr. King was named the 2006 Texas Superintendent of the Year by the Texas Association of School Boards and has received numerous state and national distinctions for his groundbreaking leadership and commitment to educational transformation.
Continuing his lifelong commitment to breaking educational barriers, Dr. King is the Founder and Board President of The PossAble Dream Foundation, where he has been instrumental in establishing The PossAble Dream Adult High School, an innovative educational institution serving adults ages 18 to 50 who seek a second chance to earn their high school diploma, gain workforce credentials, and pursue meaningful career opportunities.
Through this groundbreaking initiative, Dr. King is helping redefine adult education in deep South Texas by connecting educational attainment with workforce development, economic mobility, and equitable access to opportunity. His vision recognizes that education is not limited by age or circumstance and that every individual deserves the opportunity to achieve personal success, financial independence, and a better future for their family.
A true trailblazer and catalyst for change, Dr. King believes that transforming education is fundamental to transforming communities. His leadership is driven by an unwavering commitment to ensuring that South Texas residents, particularly those who have historically faced barriers to educational and economic opportunity, have access to the resources, support, and pathways necessary to succeed.
PANELIST
Tino Villarreal
City Commissioner, City of Brownsville
PANELIST
Dr. Ricardo J. Solis
President, South Texas College
Prior to entering the higher education field, Dr. Solis was actively involved for over twenty years in in economic and workforce development globally within both public and private sectors. Dr. Solis has worked in numerous leadership capacities and has successfully transitioned his industry expertise into community college administration.
Dr. Ricardo Solis has served in several academic capacities. Presently, he is the President of South Texas College, the largest college in South Texas. Previously, he served as President of Laredo College for five years focusing on health sciences, technology and workforce development. He was Executive Dean at Gateway of Maricopa Community Colleges, the largest college system in the U.S. and served as Executive Director for International Initiatives at Houston Community College System, one of the largest college systems in Texas. As director, he managed all global projects including the unique campus partnership in Qatar and the programs in Saigon and Mexico.
Moreover, for three years he served as Dean of Workforce Instruction at McLennan Community College in Waco, Texas. Presently, Dr. Solis serves as President of South Texas College (STC) since 2021. Founded in 1993, South Texas College has grown to become a nationally recognized community college serving more than 30,000 students each semester and a faculty and staff of more than 2,200. The college has 5 five state-of-the-art campuses, the STC Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence, and one virtual campus. STC offers certificates, associate degrees and baccalaureate degrees in more than 131 programs as well as continuing professional and industry training programs and Dual Credit courses for eligible high school students.
Additionally, STC is the only community college in the State of Texas to offer 5 baccalaureate degrees. Dr. Solis earned a doctorate in Higher Education Administration from The University of Texas at Austin. He has a Master of Business Administration in International Management from The Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterrey, California and has a Bachelor of Administration with a double major in Business and Economics from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas.
1:50 PM – 2:10 PM: THE 20-MINUTE MISSION – MEET THE EXHIBITORS
LOCATION: VALENCIA/MARRS
Over 20 minutes, listen to exhibitor highlights and make notes on a card in three sections:
- One new idea;
- An interesting tool or resource you heard about; and
- An exhibitor to follow up with.
This activity functions very similarly to Exhibitor Lightning Rounds, which you may be familiar with if you’ve been to a Literacy Texas Conference in recent years.
2:20 PM – 3:20 PM
“Your Move” – Action Planning
(1 hour PD)
LOCATION: VALENCIA/MARRS
Primary Topic Area
Session will also cover:
Audience
Level
Texas AEL PD Category
Assigned by TCALL
Other info:
No other info available at this time.
Dr. Cynthia Salazar
Director Adult Education & Literacy, South Texas College
Dr. Cynthia Salazar is a senior educational leader with more than 25 years of experience spanning Early Childhood –12th grade in public education, Region One Education Service Center, and higher education. She currently serves as Director of Adult Education & Literacy within the Division of Continuing Education and Workforce Development at South Texas College, where she provides strategic oversight of a program funded by the Texas Workforce Commission that expands educational access, workforce readiness, and economic mobility for adult learners across South Texas.
In her current role, she ensures fidelity to federal and state requirements while managing a $1.8 million budget, contracts, and program compliance. She leads grant staff, collaborates with internal and external partners, and advances initiatives that integrate English as a Second Language instruction with Industry Education and Training pathways to support certification attainment and workforce participation.
Dr. Salazar holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M University–Kingsville, a Master of Library Science from Sam Houston State University, a Master of Educational Administration, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from The University of Texas–Pan American (now The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley). Her certifications include Superintendent, Principal, Librarian, Teacher, and Higher Education Administration and Leadership (HEAL). Her career reflects deep expertise in educational leadership, grant development and management, curriculum and instruction, and adult learning theory. Her professional background includes senior roles in grant and contract compliance, human capital management, performance-based compensation systems, and program evaluation.
Dr. Salazar is an advocate to advancing lifelong learning opportunities that strengthen individuals, institutions, and communities in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas.
Arlene Longoria, M.Ed.
Educator, Retired
Ms. Arlene Z. Longoria, M.Ed., is a retired educator and leader with more than 32 years of distinguished service in public education. Throughout her career at she has held a variety of instructional and leadership positions, including bilingual teacher, Reading Specialist, Project Manager, State Literacy Liaison, Instructional Coach/Strategist, school administrator, and Director at Region One ESC. Her professional work centered on advancing educational excellence through leadership, professional development, coaching, and technical assistance to local education agencies, fostering alignment and opportunities for student success from early childhood through postsecondary education.
A lifelong advocate for literacy, lifelong learning, and educational opportunity, Arlene continues her commitment to serving and strengthening communities through her involvement on the Workforce Solutions Board of Directors and the South Texas Literacy Coalition Board. Through these roles, she remains dedicated to advancing college and career readiness, expanding opportunities for adults and students, and empowering educators and families. Retirement marks not an end, but a new chapter of service, leadership, and community engagement.
Guided by her belief that strong communities are built through collaboration, opportunity, and access to quality education, Arlene remains passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
3:20 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL & DOOR PRIZES
LOCATION: VALENCIA/MARRS
DOWNLOADS
Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending the symposium.
Download or print a copy of the symposium program.
OUR THANKS TO SYMPOSIUM UNDERWRITERS –
SYMPOSIUM PARTNERS
SYMPOSIUM PATRONS
SYMPOSIUM SPONSORS
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Checked/updated: 8/5/2026
