La Joya ISD remains a leader in securing competitive grant funding to support student achievement, instructional quality, and campus safety. Between the 2023–2024 and 2024–2025 academic years, the district has been awarded more than $35 million through state and federal grants focused on elevating academic performance, expanding enrichment programs, and enhancing school security.
The most significant award to date is the 2023–2025 Safety and Facilities Enhancement (SAFE) Grant, Cycle 1, which brought in an unprecedented $27.1 million to fund vital infrastructure improvements, upgraded security systems, and districtwide safety initiatives. Chief Leonardo Sanchez and the Police Department spearhead this grant.
In support of high-quality classroom instruction, La Joya ISD secured a $3 million HQIM Immediate Implementation Grant led by Brenda Garcia to expand the use of high-quality instructional materials across all content areas. Similarly, the 21st Century Community Learning Centers, Cycle 11, Year 4 grant, totaling $1.7 million, continues to provide robust after-school and enrichment programming for students through the ACE Department under the direction of Janeth Leal.
Additional awarded grants include:
The 2024–2025 Texas Education for Homeless Children and Youth grant, which awarded $196,695 to support vulnerable student populations, was led by Leonor Garcia and the Family & Community Engagement Department.
The 2023–2024 Texas Reading Initiative - Literacy Coaching & PD (6–12), Year 3, was awarded $224,681, and the K–5, Year 3 component was awarded $161,735, both managed by Kathy Pulido and the Early Learning Department to strengthen literacy instruction across grade levels.
Dr. Derek Little coordinated the Strong Foundations Planning Grant and AP Computer Science Principles Grant, which focused on early literacy and college-readiness pathways.
LASO Cycle 2 Strong Foundation Implementation provided $263,000 to the K–12 Literacy Department under Annette Lozano.
The FY2025 School Action Fund Planning Grant and LASO Cycle 3 AP Principles Grant, totaling $1.29 million, were awarded to the Academics and School Leadership Department.
The 2025–2026 Strong Foundations Direct Implementation Grant, which provided $317,000 in continued support of instructional frameworks, was led by Brenda Garcia.
Several law enforcement and school safety grants managed by Chief Leonardo Sanchez, including the Project Safe Neighborhoods, Crime Stoppers Assistance Fund, and the Juvenile Justice & Truancy Prevention Grant Program.
Looking ahead, La Joya ISD is actively applying for additional funding opportunities, including:
The 2025–2026 Direct HQIM Implementation Grant for $1.3 million
The 21st Century Community Learning Centers, Cycle 11, Year 5 renewal for $1.7 million
The COPS Hiring Program Grant for $1.09 million, intended to expand the district’s school-based law enforcement presence
These collective efforts showcase La Joya ISD’s firm commitment to excellence, equity, and innovation. They ensure every student receives a safe, enriched, and high-quality education, echoing the belief that Educational Excellence is the Right of every student.