(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — Nov. 10, 2025) — El Paso ISD students dazzled audiences with creativity, innovation, and scientific problem-solving during this year’s WeatherFest, held Saturday, Nov. 8, at The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso.
Twelve EPISD schools showcased student-designed STEM and STEAM projects, competing alongside campuses from across the region in one of the Borderland’s most anticipated hands-on science events.
EPISD campuses representing elementary, middle, and high school levels included:
Western Hills Elementary
Clendenin Elementary
Crockett Elementary
Cooley Elementary
Bobby Joe Hill PK–8
Don Haskins PK–8
Magoffin
MacArthur PK–8
Franklin High School
Austin High School
Bowie High School
CCTE
Hosted by KTSM-TV, WeatherFest challenges students to apply science, engineering, and meteorology concepts to real-world issues. This year’s projects delivered powerful ideas, thoughtful research, and impressive craftsmanship.
Many of the elementary submissions came from EPISD’s new academies, which emphasize STEAM, STEM, fine arts integration, and environmental science—giving young learners opportunities to explore robotics, coding, engineering design, weather modeling, and more.
Two EPISD High Schools Earn Top Honors
EPISD students made a strong showing at this year’s competition, with two campuses taking home major distinctions:
Franklin High School — Best Overall High School Project
Franklin students impressed judges with a project focused on preventing flooding and reducing urban temperatures. Their design blended engineering, environmental science, and creative problem-solving to address issues increasingly affecting communities across the Southwest.
Austin High School — Ultimate Weather Warrior Award
Austin High School earned WeatherFest’s top honor for a project examining the environmental impact of AI data centers. Through thoughtful research and innovation, students highlighted the growing need for sustainable technological infrastructure.
While only two campuses received top awards, every EPISD school delivered outstanding work. Students demonstrated collaboration, curiosity, and perseverance. District leaders expressed their pride in each team’s efforts, noting that the projects showcased the strength of EPISD’s academic programs and the passion of its students.
EPISD congratulates Franklin High School, Austin High School, and all participating campuses for their exceptional work, creativity, and dedication. The district also extends its appreciation to KTSM-TV for hosting another successful WeatherFest and providing a platform for young scientists to shine.