SAN JUAN — The Pharr‑San Juan‑Alamo Independent School District board voted Jan. 27 to approve a contract with the Boys & Girls Club of Pharr‑San Juan‑Alamo to provide after‑school and out‑of‑school programming for PSJA students.

Under the agreement presented to trustees, the Boys & Girls Club will operate after‑school programs tied to the 21st Century grant initiatives, provide in‑school prevention programs, after‑school transportation to club sites, full‑day supervision and academic enrichment during spring and summer breaks, and job‑readiness training for at‑risk students. The nonprofit described year‑round service — not a seasonal program — and noted its facilities remained open during holidays and unexpected school closures.

Alfredo Mata, CEO for the Boys & Girls Club serving Pharr, San Juan and Alamo, told the board the organization currently serves roughly 100 PSJA students daily across its sites, provides a USDA‑approved supper for participants, and runs a “power hour” homework session followed by enrichment activities in arts, technology and fitness. Mata said the group recently opened an Alamo site at Marcela Garza Elementary and operates multiple club sites across the three cities.

Trustees who spoke in support described past visits to club facilities and highlighted the clubs’ role providing supervised enrichment, meals, tutoring and mentoring, including involvement by retired teachers and community volunteers. Several trustees asked for transparency and reporting from the vendor; Alfredo Mata and Boys & Girls Club board member Johnny Carrillo said invoices and program documentation are provided and that the club pursues municipal, county and other grants in addition to school district partnership funds.

The board voted to approve the contract by voice vote. Trustees asked staff to include standard performance and invoicing documentation in future reports so the board can track participation counts and fiscal compliance.

Ending: With approval, Boys & Girls Club programs will continue and expand services at PSJA campuses; district staff will return to the board with oversight documentation and program metrics.