The El Paso Independent School District Citizens Bond Steering Committee, composed of parents, community members, local professionals, and district staff, convened for its second meeting at Sunrise Mountain Elementary School to continue shaping long-range priorities for district facilities.
As part of its charge to guide future investments in school infrastructure and learning environments, the committee heard presentations from the Safety & Security and Athletics subcommittees. These groups are central to ensuring the bond planning process remains grounded in community input and focused on student needs.
Together, the two subcommittees conducted more than 17 meetings and completed multiple campus visits to assess facility conditions across the district. Their recommendations are informed by community survey feedback and the Facility Condition Index, a comprehensive tool used to evaluate the condition, safety, and functionality of school buildings. These findings were presented to the full committee for further discussion, refinement, and alignment.
Safety and security continue to be a top priority for El Paso ISD. The Safety & Security subcommittee highlighted critical facility upgrades and emphasized the importance of maintaining high levels of training and preparedness for safety personnel across all campuses.
“Safety and security of our students is foundational to all the work we do,” said Col. Greg Baine, a member of the Safety & Security subcommittee. “It must remain our top priority.”
The Athletics subcommittee focused on improvements needed to sustain and enhance the district’s highly successful athletic programs.
Beyond the field, athletics support essential character and aptitude growth for students, equipping them with necessary life skills. Students participating in athletics have higher rates of attendance and benefit from camaraderie and support from teammates.
El Paso ISD student-athletes continue to excel at the state level, including a State Wrestling Champion, a Final Four appearance in boys’ soccer, and a strong showing in basketball with multiple Bi-District championships.
“Investing in athletic facilities and programs today creates long-term value for our students and our community,” said Sherry Bunn, El Paso ISD parent and co-chair of the Athletics subcommittee. “These improvements not only expand opportunities for students but also strengthen our schools as destinations for families while creating more efficient, revenue-generating facilities that can be reinvested back into our district.”
Site surveys by the Athletics subcommittee found many of the El Paso ISD athletic facilities in need of renovation or repair.
“El Paso ISD student-athletes have achieved tremendous success and are a source of pride for our entire community,” said David Cervantes, Executive Director of Athletics. “It’s important that we continue investing in facilities that support their growth and position them for continued success.”
Additional information, materials, and upcoming meeting dates for the Citizens Bond Steering Committee are available at episd.org/bond.