(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — Jan. 23, 2026) — Academic success at Hawkins Elementary School is no accident. It is the result of a shared commitment, a positive campus culture, and a belief that every student can achieve at high levels regardless of background.
Recently celebrated by the Council on Regional Economic Expansion and Educational Development (CREEED) for strong performance in reading and math, Hawkins Elementary continues to demonstrate how collaboration and high expectations can lead to meaningful outcomes for students. The campus has also earned an “A” rating from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for the 2024–25 school year, marking its third consecutive year receiving the state’s highest accountability rating.
Principal Rafael Guardado is new to Hawkins but brings years of experience within El Paso ISD. He credits the school’s success to a collective effort across the entire campus.
“Everyone plays a role in our students’ success from teachers, administrative staff, food service workers, custodians — everyone,” Guardado said. “Everyone wants to be involved in our student’s success and having that attitude around here creates a positive environment for everyone.”
Hawkins Elementary serves students from Pre-K through fifth grade, focusing on academic growth at every level. Staff regularly review data to identify student needs and adjust instruction, ensuring progress remains at the center of daily work.
“We look at the data, learn from it, and keep pushing forward,” Guardado said. “The achievements we’re seeing are the result of everyone being involved and invested.”
That approach has proven especially impactful at a campus where approximately 91 percent of students are economically disadvantaged. Hawkins Elementary continues to challenge the notion that economic barriers determine academic outcomes.
“We try to show our students and families that being from an economically disadvantaged background does not limit what you can accomplish,” Guardado said. “Success is possible, and we work together every day to prove that.”
In addition to its “A” rating, Hawkins Elementary has earned multiple distinction designations from the TEA, including Academic Achievement in Reading/Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science, as well as Top 25% Comparative Academic Growth and Closing the Gaps. The campus is also recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School. It’s an honor awarded to schools demonstrating overall academic excellence.
Keeping families informed and involved remains a key part of the campus strategy. School leaders emphasize open communication and strong partnerships with parents and the surrounding community.
“The success of our campus is truly collaborative,” Guardado said. “When students, staff, and families are aligned, it creates an environment where everyone can thrive.”
As Hawkins Elementary continues building on its momentum, school leaders say the focus remains the same: maintain high expectations, support every learner, and foster a culture where success is shared by all.