(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — July 1, 2025) — El Paso ISD is proud to announce the appointment of Melissa Ortiz as the new principal of Sunrise Mountain Elementary School, effective July 1, 2025.
Ortiz brings more than 15 years of dedicated service in public education, with a strong background in instructional leadership, counseling, and classroom teaching. She most recently served as the principal of Putnam Elementary, where she led day-to-day operations and championed high standards for student achievement and faculty excellence.
A proud alumna of the University of Texas at El Paso, Ortiz holds a master’s degree in Educational Psychology and Counseling as well as a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.
Ortiz began her career at Hillside Elementary, and throughout her career, Ortiz has served in multiple roles across elementary education, including assistant principal, school counselor, and teacher. Her expertise spans evaluation and assessment, curriculum development, teacher supervision, and data-driven instruction. Her hands-on experience in various educational roles has equipped her with a broad and strategic perspective on how to support student success and empower educators.
Please join us in welcoming Melissa Ortiz to her new role as principal of Sunrise Elementary.