(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – December 16, 2024) — El Paso ISD continues to strengthen its community connections through initiatives that align with its core values of service, equity, and unity. The district’s commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships was on full display Monday morning at Crockett Elementary School, where the El Paso Police Department’s Northeast Regional Command brought gifts and smiles to children in need. Officers, dressed as Santa Claus, the Grinch, and cheerful elves, delivered toys and other presents as part of their annual community outreach effort.
The Northeast Regional Command’s holiday initiative, supported by patrol officers and community members, ensures that children experiencing hardship receive holiday gifts. By working closely with school counselors, officers identify families in need to make the greatest impact.
“It feels great just to see a smile on these children's faces,” El Paso Police Officer Slade Davis said. “Their faces just light up when they get their present. It makes their whole day—and ours too!”
For many officers, the initiative is deeply personal. Having come from humble beginnings, they are passionate about giving back. Some even involve their own children in selecting gifts for students to teach the value of generosity.
“It’s such a beautiful experience because I was in their shoes,” said Stephanie Castreon of the El Paso Police Northeast Regional Command. “It’s nice to give back to the community and to have this opportunity to give back to these young students.”
The event brought joy to Crockett Elementary students, who eagerly unwrapped their gifts and interacted with their festive visitors.
Counselor Beatrice Garza praised the donation for its impact on the students. “I thought this event was great. The Grinch and Santa were awesome. The elves also did a great job coordinating everything. This was a real treat for Crockett Elementary. We are blessed to have a community that cares about the children and makes them happy.”
The collaboration between the El Paso Police Department and Crockett Elementary underscores the district’s dedication to uniting with community partners to make a tangible difference. Such efforts demonstrate the power of working together to uplift students and their families, creating a network of care and support that goes beyond the classroom.
By building meaningful partnerships, El Paso ISD continues to advance its mission to support the whole child and create a brighter future for every student.