El Paso ISD has partnered with the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), now known as the Department of War Education Activity (DoWEA), since 2013 to support military-connected students and families across the district. DoDEA's Education Partnership and Resources Branch funds programs that promote academic achievement and positive educational opportunities for children of military families. EPISD currently operates three DoDEA grant-funded programs.

Connecting 21st Century Pathways to Active, Engaged Learning: Gateway to STEM Careers for Military-Connected Communities

Campuses: Navarrete Middle School | Hartley PK-8 | Chapin High School

This program vertically aligns Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) learning from middle school through high school to support college and career readiness for military-connected students. At Chapin High School, students have access to diverse course offerings, college credit opportunities, industry certifications, and hands-on classroom technology. Middle school students at Navarrete and Hartley can prepare for Chapin's engineering magnet program through STEM-focused electives, extracurricular clubs, and summer camps. During school breaks, STEM camps give elementary-age students the opportunity to explore coding, robotics, forensic science, and more. The program also incorporates curriculum and teacher training through Project Lead the Way, a national nonprofit dedicated to transforming K–12 education through hands-on, student-centered learning with real-world applications.

Raise the Bar: An Engaging Approach to Whole-Child Wellness and Achievement Through Increased Physical Fitness

Campuses: Bliss, Cielo Vista, Logan, Milam, Nixon, Park, Powell, Tippin, Tom Lea, and Torres Elementary Schools | Navarrete and Richardson Middle Schools | Hartley and MacArthur PK-8 | Chapin High School

The Raise the Bar Fitness Initiative supports student wellness and physical activity for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. The curriculum emphasizes cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, body composition, and balanced nutrition. Elementary students participate through physical education classes, while middle and high school students may enroll in a Raise the Bar elective course. Each school year culminates in a district-wide fitness competition in partnership with Fort Bliss and community stakeholders, connecting military-connected schools with the installation and the broader El Paso community.

World Language Advancement and Readiness Program: Conexiones (Connections)

Campuses: Bliss, Hughey, Milam, and Powell Elementary Schools

Conexiones provides K–5 students with Spanish language education complemented by lessons on Hispanic arts, customs, and traditions. For military-connected families new to the region, the program offers meaningful cultural exposure to help students and families acclimate to the El Paso community. Beyond the classroom, Conexiones engages families through monthly newsletters and family night events, culminating in the annual World Language Festival. The skills students gain — language proficiency and cultural competency — are transferable assets that will serve them through future relocations, higher education, and their careers. Conexiones is funded by a DoDEA grant through May 2027

Contact Us

• Nivia Bernal

• Project Manager, DoDEA Grant

• (915) 230-2343

• Email Nivia