Dear El Paso ISD,
As we approach the long weekend, I want to take a moment to wish everyone a safe and happy Memorial Day. This is a time for reflection, gratitude, and connection with loved ones. Please remember that all campuses will observe early release on Friday, May 23, ahead of the holiday. Thank you for planning accordingly.
This week, we celebrated some of the brightest lights in our district at the 2024-25 Teacher of the Year and Educational Support Personnel of the Year Awards. Congratulations to Sandra Iglesias of Cielo Vista Elementary and Mary Bejarano of Hornedo Middle School, our Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year. We also honor Monica Avina from Crockett Elementary and Alejandra Hernandez from Polk Elementary as our top support personnel—individuals whose dedication creates welcoming, thriving environments across our schools. Additionally, we are proud to introduce the Inspire, Empower, and Thrive Awards in partnership with Raiz Federal Credit Union. Congratulations to Tony Martinez, Simon Chandler, and Claudia Cardoza on their well-deserved recognition.
We are not done celebrating the incredible individuals who dedicate themselves every day to El Paso ISD. Next week, we will host our Employee Service Awards to honor those whose commitment helps make our district the best place in El Paso to educate the next generation of leaders.
We also want to wish the best of luck to the students representing El Paso ISD at the Regional Spanish Spelling Bee this Saturday, May 24. Issac Diaz of Moreno Elementary, Emiliano Ferran Martinez of Wiggs Middle School and Shaheli De Silva of Young Women’s Academy, we’re proud of all your hard work and commitment, and we’re cheering you on as you take the stage to showcase your linguistic talents and academic excellence.
On Wednesday, I had the pleasure of attending the 2025 Career and Technical Education Healthcare Expo, where students in our CTE healthcare programs demonstrated their knowledge, skill, and passion for service. Through hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and professional networking, these students are preparing for meaningful careers that impact lives. Events like these show the power of career readiness in action—and how El Paso ISD is building pathways to success for every learner.
We also applaud the El Paso ISD Council of PTAs, which awarded seven scholarships of $1,000 each to deserving seniors from campuses with active PTA chapters. This act of generosity underscores the PTA’s vital role in empowering families, supporting student success, and strengthening community ties. Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients!
Lastly, I want to share an update regarding Lamar Elementary School. On Tuesday, May 21, the El Paso ISD Board of Trustees voted to reverse the previously approved decision to close Lamar. While this change will have a financial impact, we remain focused on providing stable, high-quality learning environments for all students. We are meeting with staff and families to offer guidance and support, and we will continue to navigate this transition thoughtfully and collaboratively.
Thank you for your continued partnership. As we head into the final stretch of the school year, let’s keep the momentum going with energy, care, and a shared commitment to our students' success.
Have a wonderful holiday weekend.
It starts with us.
Sincerely,
Diana Sayavedra
Superintendent, El Paso ISD