SJC named a top online school in country
Local college’s online program selected as 6th best in nation by Newsweek
San Jacinto College has been recognized as one of America’s Top Online Colleges for 2026 by Newsweek and global data-research firm Statista, securing the sixth position nationally among 250 ranked institutions.
This significant advancement from the college’s 42nd-place ranking last year underscores the college’s deepening commitment to delivering high-quality online education tailored to the evolving needs of today’s students.
This distinguished ranking underscores the college’s steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality online education that meets the evolving needs of today’s students.
The ranking, published online and in Newsweek’s print issue this month, was based on a comprehensive evaluation of online education programs across the United States. The assessment considered four major pillars: institutional indicators, rating of experience, overall satisfaction and student recommendations.
“Advancing to sixth place among the nation’s online learning institutions affirms our dedication to student success and innovation,” said Niki Whiteside, chief online learning and innovation officer at San Jacinto College. “It reflects our faculty, who bring real-world experience into the virtual classroom, continued investment in digital learning infrastructure, and robust student-support services.”
The ranking was determined through rigorous research involving more than 10,000 individuals who have completed online college degrees in the United States. The evaluation criteria included organization, support, price, reputation, success, recommendation, practical relevance and overall satisfaction with the online learning experience.
San Jacinto College offers 26 associate degrees and 34 workforce certificates entirely online. Students can pursue credentials in areas including computer information technology, education, health care, global logistics, social and behavioral sciences, and business. The College’s online programs offer students the flexibility to pursue their educational goals while balancing work, family and other commitments.
Runoff election set for Jan. 31
Menefee, Edwards compete to replace late U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner
A runoff election will take place Saturday, Jan. 31, to determine who will fill the unexpired term of the state’s 18th Congressional District seat that was vacated by former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, who died in March 2025 shortly after taking office.
Vying for that position are Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee and former Houston City Council Member Amanda Edwards.
While most South Belt residents will be ineligible to vote in the election, the TX‑18 runoff carries national weight because the winner will step into Congress immediately at a time when closely divided votes could hinge on a single member. The district is home to major energy, medical and research institutions whose federal funding and regulatory issues often shape national policy. TX‑18 has also long been a prominent voice within the Democratic caucus, meaning its next representative could influence debates that reach far beyond the district’s boundaries.
A crowded field of 16 candidates competed in the Nov. 4 special election, but none reached the required 50 percent threshold to win outright. Menefee led the field with roughly 29 percent of the vote, while Edwards followed with nearly 26 percent
Under Texas law, the top two finishers advance to a runoff when no candidate secures a majority.
The winner will finish the remainder of Turner’s term, which ends in January 2027.
Background.
Texas’ 18th Congressional District – one of the most historically significant districts in the nation – has experienced unusual turnover since 2024, driven by the following two unexpected deaths:
– Sheila Jackson Lee (July 2024) – U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who had represented the district since 1995, died on July 19, 2024. Her death – not her 2023 mayoral campaign – created the first vacancy.
A Democratic Party committee selected Sylvester Turner to replace her on the November 2024 ballot.
– Sylvester Turner’s (March 2025) – Turner won the November 2024 election and took office in January 2025, but died just two months later, on March 5. His passing triggered the November 2025 special election, marking the second special election in less than a year for the district.
As a result, the winner of the Jan. 31 runoff will become the fourth person to represent the district since 2024.
Traditionally a Democratic stronghold, the 18th Congressional District has been represented by political heavyweights including Barbara Jordan, Mickey Leland, Sheila Jackson Lee, and most recently, Turner. With both Menefee and Edwards running as Democrats, the seat is expected to remain under Democratic control.
Candidates
– Christian Menefee: Menefee currently serves as Harris County attorney, a role in which he has frequently clashed with state Republican leaders over voting rights, environmental enforcement and local control. He has built a reputation as a progressive legal advocate focused on protecting civil rights, expanding access to the ballot and strengthening environmental protections. His campaign has emphasized standing up for working families, defending Democratic institutions and ensuring federal resources reach underserved communities.
– Amanda Edwards: Edwards is a former Houston City Council member and attorney who has long been active in civic leadership and community development. She previously ran for U.S. Senate and for Houston mayor, building a profile centered on economic opportunity, infrastructure investment and public health initiatives. Her platform highlights affordable housing, small business support and strengthening social services, along with a message of collaborative, community‑driven leadership.
Early voting
Early voting will begin Wednesday, Jan. 21, and continue through Tuesday, Jan. 27.
For additional information on the Jan. 31 runoff election, to view a sample ballot or see a complete list of polling locations, visit www. harrisvotes.com.
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