(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – Aug. 11, 2025) — Students at Charles Q. Murphree PK-8 are kicking off the new school year with a little extra magic and a big boost to school spirit. On Thursday, August 7, every student was sorted into one of four houses which included, Amistad (Friendship), Isibindi (Courage), Reveur (Dreamers), and Altruismo (Well-being of Others) — echoing the friendly competition and camaraderie made famous by the Harry Potter series.
While the initiative brings plenty of fun, it’s also designed with a real-world purpose: to encourage attendance, positive behavior, and active participation in school life. Students will work together to earn points for their house based on good conduct, academic effort, and involvement in campus events. A scoreboard in the cafeteria will keep the competition lively, with house standings updated regularly.
The fun continued Monday, August 11, when students gathered to cheer on their teachers as they popped black balloons to reveal their own house assignments. Teachers and staff will join their students in the friendly rivalry, further strengthening connections between educators and learners.
Campus leaders say the house system is a way for everyone to be involved and to create a sense of family on campus. The approach has been used successfully in schools across the country, with some reporting improved student behavior and stronger community ties.
The program will run all year, with special celebrations and rewards for the house that earns the most points. Along the way, Murphree PK-8 hopes the initiative will foster school pride, build lasting friendships, and help every student feel at home.