Posted inEducation

Embarking On a New Journey, One Step At A Time

MaryJane by MaryJane

As his last year at Jimmy Carter Early College High School ends, senior Luis Flores embarks on a new journey with the United States Marine Corps.
To some, enlisting has never been in their career path, but to Flores, being a marine has been his dream since he was 12. Balancing dual enrollment courses and being involved in training for the Marines doesn’t stop Flores from questioning his love for the Marines.
“I’ve always wanted to help people differently. I believe there is evil in the world, and the marines are a force of good that makes a difference.” Flores said.
Despite the challenging and emotional decision to enlist in the Marine Corps, Flores’s family and friends stand beside him. Flores states that although he knows his relationships won’t be the same after serving, he has made amends with that and continues to spend his time here in the Rio Grande Valley in good spirits.
“I leave June 9, so about two weeks after graduation. I’m trying to spend all my time with my friends.” Flores said.
But being a Marine isn’t the only thing Flores wants to do; Flores is interested in cars and MMA fighting. Flores does Jiu Jitsu after school, attends personal training, and wishes to continue a career after serving.
“I want” to follow out my contract and serve for about eight years, get out, and pursue either MMA or get my certificate for welding and build off of that,” Flores said.
Personal training is a physical training program that conditions and trains incoming recruits for boot camp.
“I’m excited for boot camp; I know it’s going to be tough, but it makes me feel one step closer to achieving my dream,” Flores said.
While achieving his goals is thrilling, Flores admits that he is scared.
“I’m obviously scared; I have to leave my friends and family, attend” for 13 weeks, and then get shipped off to who knows where.” Flores said.”
But Flores does not take his fear negatively; fear is a good thing to him. Fear comes from leaving your comfort zone and doing something you usually wouldn’t.
“I was terrified when I actually began enlisting. I had a lot of doubts, but I realized that it’s all in my head; you have to push through to earn what you want; it’s your dream for a reason,” Flores said.
Flores has been looking forward to this opportunity since before he can remember and can’t wait to make a difference for our country.

Posted inSchool Pride, Education, UIL, Community, Contest

JCECHS Dominates UIL Invitational Meet with 85 Impressive Wins

by Ivan Silva

The Jimmy Carter Early College High School (JCECHS) UIL Academics Team participated in the first UIL Invitational meet for the La Joya ISD UIL for the 2023-2024 academic year, which was held on October 21, in collaboration with Thelma Salinas Early College High School. JCECHS students displayed their academic skills, securing an impressive total of 85 victories across various categories, including STEM, Journalism, speaking, and general academic events.

This noteworthy performance at the UIL Invitational meet highlights the dedication and commitment of JCECHS students to academic excellence. The school is proud of the accomplishments of its UIL Academics Team and continues to support students in their pursuit of educational achievements.

JCECHS remains committed to providing opportunities for students to excel in academic competitions, and this successful showing at the UIL Invitational meet underscores the school’s commitment to nurturing and showcasing students’ talents and abilities.

Posted inEducation, Events

Be kind to your mind, live drug free

Bryana Flores by Bryana Flores

“Be Kind to Your Mind, Live Drug-Free” is the October 2023 school year motto, symbolizing Red Ribbon Week’s commitment to promoting a healthy, drug-free life.

“I think that was really impactful because kids looked up to these people and aspired to be like them. Now it’s like we have other things to do. Let’s get over it. That’s how it feels sometimes,” commented English teacher Thania Robles.

Red Ribbon Week is an annual celebration every October, founded in remembrance of DEA Agent Enrique (Kiki) Camarena. It is a week dedicated to honoring his work and inspiring students to lead drug-free lives, as Ana Salinas, the Jimmy Carter Early College Counselor explains.

“Red Ribbon Week originated in response to the tragic events surrounding DEA Agent Kiki Camarena, his suffering, and the impact on his family and associates. It sheds light on drug users and those involved in drug distribution,” stated Ms. Robles, a junior high school teacher and dual enrollment educator.

Beyond recognizing its historical origin, students must comprehend the personal significance of Red Ribbon Week in their lives.

“Red Ribbon Week ” is a tribute to DEA Agent Kiki Camarena, highlighting his ordeal and its broader impact. It is essential for our students, as Latinos and Americans, to recognize that drugs affect users and individuals within the same community,” Ms. Robles emphasized.

Throughout October, Jimmy Carter counselor Mrs. Salinas and fellow class officers come together to organize events that shed light on Enrique Camarena’s tragic story and convey the message of Red Ribbon Week.

“This year, we are adopting a different approach. Collaborating with the student council president, we have reevaluated our past initiatives to serve our students better. We are introducing our first talent show this school year,” announced Mrs. Salinas.

Entering October with the theme “Hook on Talent, Not on Drugs,” Jimmy Carter High School teacher and Dual Enrollment instructor Mr. Robles acknowledges her past involvement as a student in Red Ribbon Week. She now plans to educate her students about the importance of living a drug-free life.

“I have actively participated in Red Ribbon Week since my school days. It has always offered engaging and interesting activities. While my initial career interest was criminal justice, I continue supporting this cause. This year, I aim to ensure my students have ribbons and actively contribute to pep rallies, raising awareness and providing a brief lesson on the historical and symbolic significance of Red Ribbon Week,” shared Ms. Robles.

Ms. Robles added, “Students often associate Red Ribbon Week with wearing red and discussing drug avoidance, but they may not fully grasp its historical context. I want to address this gap in their knowledge.”

Red Ribbon Week goes beyond mere celebration; it serves as a means to inform individuals about the adverse effects of drugs. This week, The educational system encourages students to feel comfortable discussing these issues and seek support when needed.

“As a student, I witnessed positive outcomes, although the scale may have diminished over the years. Red Ribbon Week was a grand affair during my childhood, featuring guest speakers, presentations, and visits from various agencies, including the Border Patrol, DEA, CBP, and the fire department. We had the opportunity to interact with all these professionals,” Ms. Robles recounted.

While events are organized during Red Ribbon Week, there is room for further education to maximize its impact.

“We could explore activities like visiting agency vehicles and understanding their roles in the fight against drug abuse. We could also engage with individuals affected by drug addiction, including former addicts and their families,” suggested Ms. Robles.

Jimmy Carter Early College students eagerly anticipate these Red Ribbon Week events and encourage their peers to participate actively.

“I engage in Red Ribbon Week by dressing up and teaming up with a friend to support our ‘Pair Up Against Drugs’ theme on Twin Day,” shared Angelica Martinez, a senior class officer.

“Another activity involves wearing your favorite crocs, flip-flops, or slides—a symbolic step in the right direction,” added Angelica Martinez.

Spreading the message about Red Ribbon Week provides solace to those dealing with substance abuse issues, bringing comfort and support to high school students.

“There is help available, and all you need to do is reach out and communicate your needs. Assistance is more accessible than ever, with different organizations offering virtual support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Students have found comfort in seeking help from the safety of their homes,” emphasized Mrs. Salinas.