(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – January 15, 2025) — El Paso ISD reaffirmed its commitment to student success and well-being with a strong start to the calendar year. District and campus leaders came together for the Building Community Retreat, a two-day event designed to equip staff with tools and strategies to support the district’s ongoing transition. This retreat emphasized collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity as the district navigates transformational changes while remaining steadfast in its mission to ensure that every student thrives.
Hosted at Mesita Elementary and La Nube, the retreat opened with a warm welcome from Superintendent Diana Sayavedra, who set the stage for two days of meaningful discussions and actionable planning. “This retreat is about coming together to align our goals and ensure that our shared vision becomes a reality,” she said. “Our focus is on fostering unity and building a stronger future for every student and family in our community.”
Sessions highlighted the importance of guiding teams through transitions with a shared understanding of objectives. A particularly poignant segment invited leaders to reflect on the district’s rich history and the values that have shaped its success. “Honoring our legacy ensures that we carry forward the strengths of our past as we adapt to new opportunities and challenges,” said Ms. Laila Ferris, who facilitated the discussion.
The retreat also focused on practical planning. Key presentations covered logistics for priority registration, staffing transitions, and transportation. These sessions provided attendees with actionable strategies to ensure a seamless experience for students, families, and staff as they navigate the changes ahead.
MORE PHOTOS: https://episdphotos.smugmug.com/2025-El-Paso-ISD-Building-Community-Retreat
Superintendent Sayavedra underscored the importance of fostering unity during the transition. “As we continue to navigate the changes brought by the Destination District Redesign, it’s essential that we work together to ensure every student receives the support they need,” she said. “The Building Community Retreat allowed our leaders to align efforts and take actionable steps to unite our communities and create a sense of belonging for all students.”
The retreat concluded with a focus on building connections and bridging gaps between closed and sister schools. Leaders brainstormed initiatives to foster trust, collaboration, and a shared identity across campuses, ensuring that every student feels valued and supported during this transformational journey.
Superintendent Sayavedra recently offered her insights and perspectives as the district continues its transition and moves toward growth.
You can read her full op-ed in the link below:
https://elpasomatters.org/2024/12/23/opinion-episd-superintendent-looks-ahead/