(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – Mar. 3, 2026) — From the rhythmic strumming of a vihuela to the silent, focused precision of an oil painter’s brush, the halls of El Paso ISD are resonating with a distinct sound this spring: the sound of excellence.
While many districts treat the arts as an elective, El Paso ISD has positioned its Fine Arts programs as a cornerstone of the student experience. Whether it’s the high-stakes drama of the One-Act Play District Contest or the technical mastery displayed at the Fine Arts Jazz Festival at Andress High School, the district is proving that when students are given a stage, they don't just perform, they lead.
The Data Behind the Art
Research consistently shows that students involved in high-level arts programs see a direct correlation in academic performance. Studies by the National Endowment for the Arts suggest that students with high arts involvement have higher GPAs and better performance in standardized testing.
In El Paso ISD, this isn't just theory, it’s a daily reality. "Our goal is to provide our students with the creativity, problem solving, and social skills to find their voice and confidence needed for life beyond high school,” said Phillip Barraza, Executive Director of Fine Arts. “Whether it's dance, music, theatre, or art, our talented teachers create distinguished programs for students to experience success and what it means to set goals and accomplish them."
A Districtwide Surge in Mariachi
The results of this investment are showing up on a bigger stage. In Seguin, Texas, the Franklin High School Mariachi ensemble secured its third consecutive Superior Rating at the State UIL competition, a rare "three-peat" that cements their status as a regional powerhouse.
However, Franklin wasn't alone in representing the "sound of El Paso." The district’s cultural heartbeat was felt through the talented ensembles of Austin, Chapin, Coronado, and Jefferson/Silva high schools, who each advanced to the state level.
"Qualifying for the UIL State Mariachi Festival in only our second year is a testament to the collective effort behind this program," said Preston Griffith, Mariachi Director at Coronado High School. "It truly takes a village. Our students and their parents have worked tirelessly, and we remain committed to raising our standard year after year."
Together, these schools showcased the incredible depth and growth of the district’s Mariachi programs, proving that EPISD is a leader in preserving and elevating this vibrant musical tradition.
Showcasing the Visual Arts
Success isn't limited to the stage. El Paso ISD’s visual artists competed in the Regional Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE), the "Super Bowl" of high school art. Unlike traditional contests, VASE requires students to defend their work in an interview with judges, explaining their technical process and creative intent.
"VASE is a competition that keeps growing, and our students are increasingly motivated to dig into the symbolism of their own personal experiences," said Hugo Nunez, Art Teacher at Coronado High School. "For the first time, we have a double medal winner, which shows just how hard our students work."
That double-medal winner, Coronado student Lianey Garcia, admitted the competition was a test of nerves. "I was shocked that both of my pieces made it," Garcia said. "Participating made me more motivated to continue in art. My teachers pushed me so much, and I’m so grateful for the guidance."
Shining in Every Area
The district's fine arts success continues to shine in every corner:
• Border Dance Competition: Recently held at Bowie High School, this event showcased the athleticism and artistry of dance programs from across the region.
• Twirling Excellence: Several members of the Franklin High School Twirling Team have officially advanced to the state competition in Austin, proving their technical mastery.
• All-State Recognition: A select group of El Paso ISD students were named 2026 All-State Musicians, ranking them among the top 1% of performers in the entire state of Texas.
• Concert & Sightreading Evaluation: Several El Paso ISD students middle schools earned Division 1 ratings at the 2026 UIL competition.
• Fine Arts Theater Programs: Six El Paso ISD Fine Arts Theater programs were named 2026 District Champions at the One Act Play contest.
• Vortex Dance Team: The Vortex Dance team at Hornedo Middle School earned several first-place awards at the UTEP Dance Championships.
For the twirlers, the road to state was paved with discipline. "Without the countless hours of pushing ourselves and the motivation of Coach Dawn Menchaca, this wouldn't have been possible," said Head Twirler Scarlett De La Rosa. "Facing new judges and competitors didn't stop us from earning superior placements."
Coach Menchaca added, "Many of our students are in their very first year! I am grateful to give them the opportunity to try something as unique as baton twirling and attain success while continuing the twirling legacy."
As the semester continues, El Paso ISD remains dedicated to ensuring that every student, whether they are a twirler, a jazz trumpeter, or an oil painter, has the resources and the audience they deserve.
To see more recent highlights from the El Paso ISD Fine Arts programs, click here.