Dear El Paso ISD,
I want to begin this week by recognizing the incredible hard work and dedication of our students, families, teachers, and staff. Together, we are making a difference, and this week’s Leadership by Design meeting reminded us just how powerful our collective commitment can be. On Thursday, principals and district leaders came together for our Leadership by Design event. We discussed and celebrated our “B” accountability rating from the Texas Education Agency, and we focused on charting the course toward our next goal: earning an “A.” Through collaboration, innovation, and student-centered leadership, we are determined to reach even greater heights for every child in El Paso ISD.
This week, our Board of Trustees also approved revisions to our cell phone policy and comply with Texas House Bill 1481. This new state law prohibits student use of cell phones and other personal communication devices during the school day to help create focused, distraction-free classrooms. While exceptions are made for medical and emergency needs, our message to students is simple: ‘power down and be present’. You can learn more about the new policy by visiting our website.
We also want to remind our families to complete the Federal Impact Aid Form, now available in the Parent Portal. The information requested provides critical funding that supports our schools. Your participation directly impacts our ability to maintain strong programs and resources. Please take a few moments to submit your form by Thursday, Sept. 18.
In celebration of our students’ creativity, we are proud to announce that EPISD artwork will be showcased at the El Paso Museum of Art in the Enfoque Community Spotlight: EPISD Transformation Through Art Exhibit. The exhibit runs Aug. 30 through Sept. 30, with a reception on Thursday, Sept. 4, from 5–7 p.m. We encourage our community to join us in honoring the talent and vision of our young artists.
Finally, I want to congratulate our Teachers of the Year, Sandra Iglesias of Cielo Vista Elementary and Mary Bejarano of Hornedo Middle School. They represented El Paso ISD with distinction at the Region 19 Teacher of the Year Awards. They embody the very best of our district and have made us all very proud.
Together, we are proving that progress is possible, that growth is within our reach, and that transformation begins with us. Let’s keep working hand in hand to make El Paso ISD the district our students deserve.
It starts with us.
Sincerely,
Martha Aguirre
Interim Superintendent of Schools