This season marks the third consecutive year of the Adopt-A-School program, which is a partnership between The University of Texas-Pan American Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and the Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District (ECISD). Each athletic program is assigned to an elementary school with or the school district. The team in effect adopts a school and serves as a mentor.

The program is designed to give elementary students an opportunity to interact with UTPA student-athletes and discuss various issues that are important to them during their formative years.  The discussion topics are recommended by the schools to ensure that the ideas reflect the district’s intentions. Topics include but are not limited to the importance of staying in school, setting goals, respect, and "saying no" to drugs.

"The school district fully embraces the efforts of the student-athletes who make time to come and visit the schools. The student-athletes serve as role models for our children and their visits are the topics of conversation for weeks afterward for our children," said former UTPA student-athlete and current ECISD school board member, Xavier Salinas.

In addition, the elementary schools have an opportunity to visit the UTPA campus, attend practices of their host team and attend home athletic events. The UTPA student-athletes have a chance to impact the children in a positive manner and become a role model that they can look up to. At the same time, they facilitate the development of relationships in the community.

"The Adopt-A-School program symbolizes the Athletic Department’s continued efforts to enhance our relationship with the local community at a grassroots level. The personal contact our student-athletes have with the children allows them to make a real impact and at the same time they plant a seed in the dream of pursuing a college education," said Georgia Kovich, Director of Marketing and Promotions, who serves as the program coordinator.

Another benefit of the program is that it allows the UTPA student-athletes the opportunity to discuss common educational concerns with the children such as setting time aside to prepare for exams and attend classes. Thus, establishing a common link with the student-athletes and children.