(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – Dec. 5, 2022) – El Paso ISD recently named a new executive director of Specialized Learning and director of Connecting Languages.   

- Veronica Reyes, the new executive director of Specialized Learning, comes to El Paso ISD from Socorro ISD where she was the director of bilingual education/English as a Second Language. She also served as a high school principal in Socorro ISD and Fort Hancock ISD. Reyes earned her bachelor of science in biomedical sciences, a master's degree in science instructional specialty and a master’s degree in educational administration from UTEP.  

- Dr. Sandra Calzada, new director of Connecting Languages, was an elementary school principal in Ysleta ISD before joining El Paso ISD. She has served Ysleta ISD as a middle school principal and assistant principal. She earned her bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies, master’s in educational administration, and doctorate in educational leadership and foundation from UTEP. 

El Paso ISD is committed to a dual language program that provides its emergent bilingual students with the opportunity to excel academically and strengthen their bilingualism and biliteracy in a way that maintains connection to community. 

“With that clear focus in mind, we are proud to have Dr. Calzada join the EPISD Academic Services Division to support our goals to continue to implement and sustain an effective PK-12 dual language program,” said Dr. Jacqueline Kennedy, Chief Academic Officer. “Dr. Calzada is a dedicated instructional leader who understands the needs of the emergent bilingual student and is equipped to ensure students entering the Dual Program, at any grade level participate in a rigorous academic program that follows the EPISD academic standards and curriculum and develops strong cross-curricular cognitive skills in Spanish and English.” 

As executive director of Specialized Learning Services, Reyes will support and guide Dr. Calzada’s work along with strategic initiatives in special education and early childhood learning. 

“Ms. Reyes brings with her a wealth of knowledge and expertise in instruction and program development, special populations, and central administration leadership,” Kennedy said.