(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – June 1, 2026) — Preliminary state assessment results indicate El Paso ISD students achieved their strongest academic performance in five years, with districtwide gains across core subjects and several campuses posting double-digit improvements ahead of the Texas Education Agency's release of official accountability ratings later this summer.
Among the most notable gains are Guillen Middle School with a 15% overall increase and Charles Q. Murphree PK-8 with an 11% overall increase.
Districtwide, preliminary data shows:
End-of-Course (EOC) performance improved 5% overall, with gains in Biology (+9%), Algebra (+7%), English I & II (+3%), US History (+1%)
STAAR grades 3-8 performance improved 3% overall with gains in Social Studies (+4%), Math (+3%), Reading and Science (+2%)
Superintendent Dr. Brian Lusk said the early indicators reflect the hard work taking place in classrooms across the district every day.
"While we remain cautious until the official results are released, these early signs are encouraging," Lusk said. "Everyone is doing great work, and my role has been to listen, support our campuses, and ensure they have the resources they need to do their best work."
District leaders credit the positive academic momentum to a renewed districtwide focus on campus support, continuous improvement, and direct instructional engagement led by Superintendent Dr. Brian Lusk. Since stepping into the role, Dr. Lusk has prioritized regular campus visits and classroom walkthroughs through a structured Feedback and Observation process with principals and school leaders.
"We have intentionally spent more time in classrooms and schools, working alongside principals and teachers to better understand what is happening at the campus level," Chief Academic Officer Al Garcia said. "The observation and feedback process has helped create stronger communication, identify opportunities for support, and reinforce effective instructional practices.
These visits are paired with ongoing collaboration with principals, teachers, and staff to better understand campus-level needs and ensure schools are connected with timely resources and support designed to improve student outcomes.