Passion to Profit

Passion to Profit

PTI Graduates Build Their Own Path Through Entrepreneurship

At PSJA ISD, preparing students for life beyond the classroom goes beyond academic achievement. It requires building confidence, independence, and real-world skills that allow every student to shape their own future. Through the district’s Pathways Towards Independence (PTI) program, students with special needs are gaining hands-on experience and discovering new pathways to success, including entrepreneurship.

This work is grounded in PSJA ISD’s commitment to ensuring students with disabilities learn alongside their peers in supportive, inclusive environments, with services tailored to their individual needs. From early childhood through young adulthood, the district provides specialized support that helps students build the skills necessary to thrive both in school and beyond.

A key addition to the program, the PTI Entrepreneurship courses are creating new opportunities for students to turn ideas into action. Designed to teach practical business skills, the courses guide students through launching and managing their own ventures. In just its first year, the program is already producing strong results, with students transforming personal interests into growing small businesses.

Among those leading the way are two graduates who have turned passion into purpose.

Gabriela Porraz, founder of Gaby’s Fiery Sweets, built her business through resilience and creativity. As she prepared to transition out of PTI, health challenges made traditional employment more difficult. Through the entrepreneurship course, Gaby discovered a different path. She learned how to develop her brand, market her products, and connect with customers while sharing her dulces enchilados at local markets.

“I like helping my mom,” Gaby shared. “When we make and sell our candy, it makes me feel good and happy. PTI showed me I can do anything I want.”

The business has become both a source of income and a reflection of her growing independence.

For Ludy Gallegos, the journey began with a passion for baking. While in the program, she developed her skills and gained the confidence to turn that interest into a business. In May 2025, she launched her own cupcake venture, applying what she learned through PTI, from baking techniques to managing orders and customer interactions.

Her work has already earned community recognition. In December, Ludy was honored at Edinburg City Hall, where local leaders recognized her entrepreneurial success and proclaimed December 12 as International Cupcake Day in her honor.

According to her mother, the experience has been transformative. Ludy has grown more confident and independent, approaching each order with enthusiasm and care as she decorates every cupcake with her signature sprinkles.

Through initiatives like the PTI Entrepreneurship courses, PSJA ISD is expanding what is possible for students with disabilities. By combining meaningful instruction with real-world application, the district is preparing students not only for employment, but to create their own opportunities and build futures defined by purpose and independence.

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