(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – Jan. 8, 2026) — Several El Paso ISD educators have earned National Board Certification, one of the most respected professional credentials in K–12 education. The distinction recognizes accomplished teaching practice, deep content knowledge, and a strong commitment to student success.
The newly certified National Board teachers are:
Juan Villarreal, Transmountain Early College High School
Lana Arreola, Tinajero PK–8
Elizabeth Chavez, Zach White Elementary School
Belenice Godinez, Burges High School
Current teachers who are certified include:
Loretta Elkins, Hartley PK-8
Rebecca Altieri, Clendenin Elementary School
Lydia Hernandez, Logan Elementary School
Raquel Lopez, Lundy Elementary School
National Board Certification is a voluntary, rigorous, performance-based process developed by teachers for teachers. Candidates demonstrate their expertise by analyzing their instruction, submitting classroom videos and student work samples, and completing a comprehensive assessment aligned to high professional standards. The process can take one to three years to complete and is widely regarded as the highest professional certification in education.
“We are tremendously proud of these teachers because National Board Certification represents a deep commitment to reflective practice and continuous growth,” said Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Brian Lusk. “The work they’ve put in to take on this challenge and advance their craft will serve to drive even more positive outcomes for our students.”
For Burges High School educator Belenice Godinez, the process offered an opportunity for deep reflection and growth.
“My National Board Certification journey has been one of the most meaningful experiences in my teaching career,” Godinez said. “The process encouraged me to slow down and reflect on the kind of teacher I am and how I can continue to grow. It helped me better understand my students’ needs and adjust my teaching to support their learning. I became more thoughtful in how I plan lessons by listening to students, parents, and colleagues.”
At Transmountain Early College High School, Juan Villarreal said the certification process challenged him to examine his practice more intentionally.
“The certification process was challenging and complex, but it helped me grow as a teacher,” Villarreal said. “It requires deep reflection on your teaching style and how it can be improved to better serve your students. Through this process, I do believe I have become a more effective teacher.”
Elizabeth Chavez, an instructional coach at Zach White Elementary School, emphasized how professional growth directly benefits students.
“Teaching is not just about delivering knowledge—it’s about inspiring growth,” Chavez said. “My dedication to education is the mirror that reflects my commitment to excellence, resilience, and the belief that every student deserves our very best because when we grow as educators, our students grow with us.”
For Lana Arreola of Tinajero PK–8, the certification reinforced a commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.
“Earning National Board Certification required deep reflection regarding my own instructional practice and nurtured a renewed commitment to continuous growth,” Arreola said. “I am honored to represent Tinajero PreK–8 and El Paso ISD and to uphold the standards of excellence our community deserves.”
Educators who previously earned National Board Certification also reflected on the lasting impact of the process. Rebecca Altieri of Clendenin Elementary School described the experience as transformative.
“Becoming a National Board–Certified Teacher was a transformative journey,” Altieri said. “The process challenged me to closely examine my instructional practices and to intentionally center my teaching around my students’ needs, strengths, and lived experiences.”
Lydia Lauretano-Hernandez of Logan Elementary School shared similar reflections on the value of the certification process.
“The National Board process was one of the most meaningful professional experiences of my career,” Lauretano-Hernandez said. “It required intentional reflection on my teaching practice and helped me grow as an educator while strengthening my impact on student learning.”
By earning this credential, teachers join a national network of accomplished educators and gain opportunities for professional leadership and career advancement. In Texas, National Board Certification may also qualify educators for additional incentives and supports.
El Paso ISD continues to invest in high-quality instruction by encouraging and supporting teachers who pursue advanced credentials. This commitment to professional excellence helps ensure students benefit from engaging, standards-aligned instruction led by highly skilled educators.