(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – October 1, 2026) — Before the first bell rings, the work has already begun.

A principal may be greeting students as they arrive, checking in with a teacher, walking the halls or making sure the day’s plans are ready to go. Before the school day is over, there will be classrooms to visit, families to meet, challenges to solve and, inevitably, a few unexpected moments that require a principal’s attention.

Through it all, one responsibility remains at the center: helping students succeed.

SEE THE 'THANK YOU' VIDEO:

October is National Principals Month. It’s a time to recognize school principals and the leadership, dedication, and guidance they provide to their school communities. Throughout El Paso ISD, principals serve as instructional leaders, mentors, problem-solvers, advocates and champions for their students and staff.

Their work often extends far beyond the traditional school day. Principals help shape the culture of their campuses, support teachers and staff, connect with families and community partners, and work to create environments where students can learn, grow and thrive.

For students, however, a principal's impact can sometimes be found in the moments that seem small.

“The principals here at El Paso ISD are awesome,” said Franklin High School student Ethan Herrera. “Principal Amanda Bowser is one of the greats because she is really involved in our school and she helps support all programs here at the campus.”

That connection is one of the many reasons school leadership matters.

“Being a principal is about much more than running a school. It’s about being present for our students, supporting our teachers and staff, and building a community where every student knows they belong and have someone in their corner,” said Patrick Gailey, principal of Brown Middle School. “Every day brings something new, and that is what makes this work so rewarding. When you see a student gain confidence, overcome a challenge or discover something they’re passionate about, you’re reminded of why you chose to be an educator and a school leader.”

Across El Paso ISD, principals lead campuses with different students, traditions, programs and communities, but they share a common purpose: creating opportunities for students to succeed.

Now, It’s Your Turn to Say Thank You

Throughout October, El Paso ISD is inviting students, families, staff and community members to share a message of appreciation for an El Paso ISD principal.

Whether it’s a few words about a principal who made a difference, a favorite memory or simply a heartfelt “thank you,” the district wants to hear from the people who experience their leadership every day.

To participate, complete the sentence:

“My principal is ______.”

Share your message at bit.ly/Principals_26.

Messages of appreciation will later be shared on the El Paso ISD website as part of the district’s celebration of National Principals Month.