(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – Sept. 8, 2026) — El Paso ISD classrooms across the district turned the page on a cherished tradition today as students, teachers, staff, and community members joined together for the annual Read Across the District (RAD) literacy event.

The districtwide celebration kicked off Tuesday morning bringing campuses together to promote a love of storytelling and emphasize the foundational importance of reading. Throughout the day, schools set aside dedicated time for shared reading, interactive literacy activities, and visits from special guest readers.

Among those participating in today's event was El Paso ISD Superintendent Dr. Lusk, who visited a local classroom to read directly to students. Joining the effort were other staff members and community volunteers, including student readers from the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), who spent time sharing their favorite books in classrooms across the district.

Students at Moreno Elementary helped kickoff the districtwide celebration. One student at the campus said her favorite book is “Pig the Rebel.”

“I like to read because it’s fun and it’s much better than a phone or anything like that,” said Lexanie, 5th grade student at Moreno Elementary. “Books allow you to use your imagination and think creatively.”

The annual effort aligns with national educational research showing that students who engage in reading for just 20 minutes a day are exposed to nearly 1.8 million words per year, dramatically improving vocabulary development, critical thinking, and long-term academic performance across all subjects.

“This event is important because we want to grow and build strong readers, and one of the best ways we can do that is to celebrate reading across the district and have time in the day where everybody, staff, teachers, librarians, and students can take time to read for enjoyment,” said Katherine Harrison, Coordinator of Library Learning Resources. “Reading is a superpower and it’s so important for the future and whatever career you go into and whatever your future holds.”

From individual reading corners to campus-wide assemblies, Read Across the District reinforces EPISD’s commitment to inspiring lifelong learners and bringing the community together through the joy of reading.