(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – June 12, 2026) — Thousands of El Paso ISD students and staff finished the school year strong by participating in the district's "Right Here. Right Now." End-of-Year Attendance Challenge. The effort was designed to improve the culture of attendance, but importantly, inspire students not to miss out on the friendships, milestones, moments, and memories that define their school years and enrich their lives.
The challenge rewarded students, staff, and campuses that demonstrated exceptional attendance during the final weeks of the school year. Thanks to the support of local businesses, community organizations, and generous donors, participants had opportunities to earn prizes including electric scooters from Rudolph Auto Group, Nintendo gaming systems, family entertainment packages, sports experiences, and other rewards.
"Every day matters when it comes to student success," Superintendent Dr. Brian Lusk said. "Attendance is one of the strongest predictors of academic achievement. When students are in school, they have access to learning opportunities, supportive relationships, and experiences that help prepare them for the future. We are grateful to our families, employees, and community partners for helping us finish the year strong."
Campuses earned special recognition during the challenge period:
• Cielo Vista Elementary School
• Richardson Middle School
• Chapin High School
• Don Haskins PK-8 School
Teachers and staff members also participated in attendance-related drawings and received prizes donated by local businesses and community supporters.
The district also recognized campuses with the highest attendance rates for the 2025-26 school year.
• Polk Elementary School
• Hornedo Middle School
• MacArthur PK-8 School
• Coronado High School
• Transmountain Early College High School
• Bowie High School was recognized as the district's Most Improved Campus, while Guillen Middle School earned recognition for its creative efforts to promote attendance.
Throughout the 2025-26 school year, students and staff participated in various attendance challenges that were designed to highlight the importance of being present at school.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, regular attendance is one of the strongest indicators of student success. Students who attend school consistently are more likely to stay engaged in learning, perform well academically, and graduate prepared for college, careers, military service, and life beyond high school.
"The 'Right Here. Right Now.' campaign is about more than prizes; it's about connecting with students and reminding them about the importance of being present," said Chief Communications Officer Liza Rodriguez. "Our goal is to create a culture where attendance matters and every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed every day."
To view a list of previous winners, head to the Right Here. Right Now. webpage and experience moments from across the district by viewing our gallery.
Thank you to our community partners
The success of the End-of-Year challenge was made possible through the generosity of numerous community partners, including Rudolph Auto Group, Procedeo, Southwest University, Peter Piper Pizza, UTEP Athletics, Hotel Indigo, Tropical Smoothie Café, Savage Metals, Marathon Petroleum, Ghostlight Creative, Advantix Bridge Insurance Solutions, and members of the El Paso ISD Education Foundation Board.
Additional support was provided by Yasmine's Hair Salon, Charcoaler, Portillo's, Menchie's, Bahama Bucks, and several other local organizations committed to supporting students and schools.