texas border operations
Selene Rodriguez
In a significant milestone for both the Brownsville Police Department and the University of South Texas, a new generation of police officers recently entered the first class of the school’s new training academy, accredited by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). I graduated.
The eight recruits who make up STC’s 24th Police Academy are commended for having a perfect 100% pass rate on the Peace Police Officer Examination, successfully completing a rigorous 21-week training program and obtaining their licenses. It was done.
“Today, we celebrate two remarkable accomplishments: our first graduates to earn the TCOLE credential, and our partners across the Rio Grande Valley,” said STC Chairman Dr. Ricardo J. Solis. I am the first graduate.” “As a proud Brownsville native, I am excited about this partnership and deeply impressed by the dedication and hard work of our students. They are stepping into one of the most prestigious and important professions. Your efforts are essential to the growth and stability of our region.”
During a memorable ceremony at STC’s Regional Center of Public Safety Excellence in Farr, Brownsville Police Department Commander Napoleon Gonzalez welcomed new officers to the force and encouraged them to pursue continuing education. encouraged and emphasized the importance of becoming tomorrow’s leaders.
“Dear police officers, we live in a society that demands a lot from our police departments. We are servants, protectors, and lifesavers. “Thank you for stepping up because there aren’t many people out there,” he said. “We recognize the excellent instruction you received at STC. This education is critical to your future success. I encourage you all to keep moving forward, keep learning, and pursue higher education. I encourage you to get that degree and try to replace us. You are the next generation.”
Among the graduates, 24-year-old Fernando Valdez expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to attend STC and emphasized his desire to give back to the community.
“This is my city, this is where I grew up, and I want to contribute and make a positive impact,” he said. “Especially those of us from Brownsville, we are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of STC’s program. ”
He added that highlights of this educational journey include extensive training with knowledgeable instructors and a balance of lectures and practical skills.
“The instructors were all great, not only in teaching but also in helping us when we were in trouble. Their support was truly the highlight of my time at the academy,” he said. .
Since 2012, STC’s Police Academy, thanks to a partnership with the City of Farr and the Farr Police Department, has graduated hundreds of peace officers who are now serving in and around the RGV.
Last April, STC received its training academy license from TCOLE after a lengthy process that required it to meet rigorous requirements, including demonstrating high standards in instructors, facilities, and curriculum.
“With the growth of our region and the increasing demand for police officers, dispatchers and jailers, we recognized the need to expand STC’s opportunities in law enforcement,” said STC Director of Business, Technology and Public Safety. ‘s Editor-in-Chief Sara Lozano explained. “Having our own TCOLE license means we are in a position to provide first-class education.”
A second police academy recently opened at STC’s Mid-Valley campus in Weslaco, and the college is now envisioning expanding its reach into Starr County.
“This is a huge responsibility that we are taking on, but we have the support and resources to carry this out, and we have a great team in place to ensure compliance every step of the way,” Lozano said. added. “To all our Brownsville graduates, we hope you will come back and continue your education. Know that you will always have a home at STC.” STC Police Academy and other public safety programs and training offered Visit southtexascollege to learn more about opportunities.
