(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – May 29, 2026) — For many students, graduation marks the beginning of an uncertain future. But for seniors across El Paso ISD, the future is already taking shape in hospitals, universities, athletic programs, and career pathways that are transforming dreams into reality.
Whether earning college credits, industry certifications, scholarships, or athletic opportunities, El Paso ISD students are graduating with more than just diplomas. They are leaving high school prepared to lead, serve, and succeed.
At Silva Health Magnet High School, senior Josefina Cortez is already building the foundation for a career in healthcare.
LEARN MORE: P-Tech programs at El Paso ISD
Through Silva’s accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) pathway, Cortez balanced dual credit college coursework while earning certifications as a Patient Care Technician and in EKG technology. She also graduated from El Paso Community College before even receiving her high school diploma.
“I feel like Silva has a good program,” Cortez said. “The group of teachers are great and they push you to succeed.”
The program gave her more than academic preparation. It also gave her real-world healthcare experience that shaped her future goals.
“One great memory here in high school is when I did my junior rotations,” Cortez said. “I had the opportunity to work in the pediatric oncology unit. It changed my perspective about things in life and helped me realize what I wanted to do. I want to be a nurse in the oncology unit.”
This fall, Cortez will attend the University of Texas at El Paso on a full-ride Terry Scholarship, where she plans to continue pursuing nursing before eventually becoming an oncology nurse practitioner.
Her achievement carries deep meaning for her family. Cortez will become the first person in her family to graduate from high school and attend college.
READ MORE FROM EL PASO ISD: Class of 2026 Graduation Guide
“I think it’s a full circle moment for my mom,” Cortez said. “It’s like she’s living all her firsts through me.”
Cortez credits her family, friends, and teachers for helping her succeed through the challenges of balancing rigorous coursework and certifications.
“My advice to students is to find a group of friends who motivate you and push you forward,” she said. “We all had each other’s backs.”
Her teacher, Edna Ramirez, says students like Cortez embody the purpose of El Paso ISD’s career preparation programs.
“Teaching these students is so amazing because these kids are so self-motivated,” Ramirez said. “They’re go-getters.”
Ramirez, who is also a registered nurse and college professor, says the program intentionally prepares students for the expectations of higher education and professional careers.
“I love that the program here at Silva prepares them for college,” Ramirez said. “I teach them like college students because I know they are capable of succeeding at that level.”
Silva senior Nicole Garay is also preparing for her next chapter.
Garay will attend The University of Texas at Austin this fall, where she plans to major in biology before pursuing dental school and eventually becoming an orthodontist.
“I’m so excited to graduate high school, but it’s also nerve wrecking because we’re leaving our safe space and going out into the real world,” Garay said.
Garay says El Paso ISD helped prepare her academically and personally for life after graduation.
“It’s exciting and I feel like my school has prepared me to be ready to take the next step in my life,” she said.
She encourages younger students to take advantage of every opportunity available during high school.
“Enjoy it and start getting into things schools offer like clubs and sports,” Garay said. “There are a lot of good things that our schools offer. Don’t miss out.”
At Bowie High School, senior Angel Torres is preparing to continue both his education and athletic career.
Torres earned a scholarship to Sul Ross State University, where he plans to study industrial technology while playing college football. Inspired by his family’s connection to Sul Ross and his interest in technical fields, Torres hopes to one day become a firefighter while also owning his own business.
Throughout high school, Torres stayed involved in National Honor Society and Student Council while balancing athletics and academics.
“Everyone at Bowie has been very nice and always helping us with our studies,” Torres said. “I am thankful to everyone who has been part of my educational journey.”
One of his most meaningful memories came from sharing the experience with his father, who serves as a coach at Bowie High School.
“One of my most memorable moments is being able to talk to my dad,” Torres said. “It’s just that type of connection I have with him.”
As he prepares for graduation, Torres hopes younger students understand the importance of hard work and leadership early on.
“My message to students is to keep working and have faith in everything you do,” Torres said. “Even as a freshman, set the example for other students.”
District leaders say stories like these reflect the mission of El Paso ISD to prepare students for success long after graduation day.
From healthcare pathways and college readiness programs to leadership opportunities and career certifications, El Paso ISD continues creating opportunities that empower students to thrive in college, careers, and life.
For Josefina Cortez, the journey is only beginning.
“I still want to give back to my community even during my studies,” she said. “I want to help people and make a difference that is what been taught to me.”