(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — January 16, 2026) — When a major water main break disrupted service across parts of northeast and central El Paso in the early morning hours of Sunday, January 11, El Paso ISD maintenance teams immediately mobilized behind the scenes to help ensure campuses could safely reopen for students and staff.
Led by Saul Urbina, Foreman of the Plumbing Shop, EPISD’s Maintenance Plumbing team worked long hours throughout the week to inspect, flush, and test water systems at dozens of campuses affected by the outage and subsequent boil water notice as El Paso Water crews worked to restore water.
“Our role is critical in moments like this,” Urbina said. “When water service is restored, we have to make sure it’s safe before anyone comes back into the buildings.”
Urbina and his team conducted water pressure checks, flushed waterlines, and performed interior inspections at campuses to ensure restrooms, sinks, and kitchens were functioning properly and free of contaminated water. The work helped district leaders make informed decisions about reopening campuses safely.
About 20 maintenance employees were involved in the response, checking in on nearly 40 campuses across the district. Teams often began work as early as 4 a.m. and worked into the evening — sometimes as late as 7 p.m. — continuing the effort through Friday as conditions gradually improved.
“We had to flush out any dirty water that came in, make sure toilets weren’t overflowing, and verify that everything inside the buildings was safe for students and staff,” Urbina said. “It took a lot of manpower, but everyone stepped up.”
Maintenance plumber Julio Chavira said the work required flexibility, commitment, and a strong sense of responsibility to the EPISD community.
“We come in at all hours,” Chavira said. “Our job is to make sure the water is clean and safe for students and staff. It’s important work, and we answer the call when we’re needed.”
Chavira explained that in addition to plumbing checks, teams ensured water systems supporting heating and kitchen operations were fully functional — especially important during winter months when reliable water access plays a role in maintaining comfortable and safe learning environments.
The response also included support from EPISD Maintenance Refrigeration technicians, who helped ensure campus systems remained safe and operational while water access was limited.
Urbina emphasized that the dedication of the maintenance teams reflects a shared commitment to student and staff safety across the district.
“We have a lot of workers who are willing to do whatever it takes,” Urbina said. “Our goal is always to make sure our campuses are safe and ready when students return.”
As the boil water notice was lifted and normal operations resumed, EPISD recognizes the tireless efforts of its maintenance teams, whose work — often unseen — plays a vital role in keeping schools safe, functional, and ready to serve students every day.