Messages from the Superintendent - Canutillo Independent School District (2024)

Gift of Freedom

Jun 27 2024

As we gather to celebrate the Fourth of July, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the profound significance of freedom and the responsibility we all share in safeguarding it.

Fostering fine arts

Jun 21 2024

It is my distinct pleasure to introduce Mr. Andres Rodriguez as the new Band Director for Canutillo High School and our CISD Music Administrator.

¡Feliz Día Del Padre!

Jun 14 2024

On this Father’s Day weekend, it is good to reflect on the essential role that fathers and father figures play in the lives of our children. In the Canutillo Independent School District, we deeply appreciate the contributions of our fathers, not only within their families but also within our educational community.

Strong Beginnings

Jun 7 2024

As we reflect on the past academic year and look ahead to the future, it's crucial to underscore the profound impact of early childhood education on the trajectory of our students' lives. The formative years of pre-kindergarten and kindergarten serve as the bedrock upon which a lifetime of learning is built.

Boundless Opportunities

May 31 2024

As we ponder in the afterglow of Thursday's Canutillo High School commencement exercises at the Don Haskins Center, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude.

Excellence In Education

May 24 2024

I am thrilled to share some exciting news about our ongoing partnership with the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) College of Education. This year, we are proud to welcome a new cohort of the Miner Teaching Residents for the 2024-25 academic year.

Congrats Class Of 2024

May 17 2024

As we approach the culmination of the academic year, I am filled with immense pride and joy to kick off the graduation season for the Class of 2024 here in Canutillo ISD. This is a momentous time for our district as nearly 90 students from Northwest Early College High School will walk the stage to receive their diplomas on Friday evening at the picturesque McKelligon Canyon.

Thank You, Canutillo

May 10 2024

As the sun sets on the horizon, casting its warm glow over our beloved Canutillo community, I find myself overcome with an immense sense of gratitude and pride. Last Saturday, our community came together in an extraordinary display of support for the future of Canutillo ISD, and I am deeply humbled by the overwhelming success of the Canutillo 2024 Bond election.

Shared Vision

May 2 2024

I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude as I reflect on the journey we've undertaken together during the informational campaign surrounding Canutillo Bond 2024.

Access To Information

Apr 26 2024

As we navigate the final days of early voting for the Canutillo Bond 2024, I am reminded of the critical role that civic engagement plays in shaping the future of our community and our schools.

Power Of Every Voice

Apr 19 2024

With early voting for the Canutillo Bond 2024 election starting on Monday, I am compelled to emphasize the importance of civic engagement and the power of every voice to make a difference.

Meaningful Mentorship

Apr 12 2024

Today at Jose Damian Elementary I had the distinct honor of witnessing a heartwarming celebration—a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and the unwavering dedication of our students.

Diverse & Dynamic Community

Apr 5 2024

As we approach the crucial date of May 4th for the Canutillo Bond 2024 vote, I find myself reflecting on the incredible outreach efforts within our community. The level of engagement and discourse surrounding the bond has been truly inspiring.

Grit & Perseverance

Mar 1 2024

As we approach the upcoming intersession and spring break, I find myself reflecting on the importance of these breaks in our academic calendar. These periods offer invaluable opportunities for our students and staff to rest, regroup and re-energize as we prepare to close off another successful school year.

Navigating Adversity

Feb 23 2024

I write to you today with a heavy heart, yet a firm resolve as we navigate through challenging times together. On Monday evening, we gathered at Davenport Elementary School to share some difficult news with our beloved community.

Boundless Spirit

Feb 16 2024

As we navigate our daily responsibilities and the weight of important decisions, it's crucial to pause and celebrate the achievements and milestones within our district. Amidst the challenges we face, our students and staff continue to inspire us with their resilience, dedication and boundless spirit.

Terrific Teachers

Feb 9 2024

I am thrilled to share some wonderful news with our Canutillo Independent School District community. It brings me immense joy to announce that approximately 50 of our dedicated teachers have once again been approved to receive the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) supplemental salary. This program, funded by the state, serves as a beacon of recognition for our educators who consistently go above and beyond to uphold the highest standards of education.

Voice Your Opinion

Feb 2 2024

As we embark on a crucial week, I want to keep you informed about the significant developments that will shape the future of our district. Our collective efforts and engagement are pivotal to overcoming challenges, and I appreciate your commitment to the Canutillo Independent School District.

Sustainable Future

Jan 26 2024

I want to take a moment to provide you with an update on the progress of the Canutillo Facilities Assessment Task Force, a dedicated group formed by our Board of Trustees to address the challenges of student enrollment loss and evaluate the state of our school infrastructure.

Trying Times

Jan 19 2024

As your Superintendent, it is my responsibility to keep you informed about the realities and challenges we face as a district. It is with a heavy heart that I must communicate some difficult news regarding our current financial situation.

Gratitude & Service

Jan 12 2024

As we approach the commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, it is a moment not just for reflection, but for action. This day, celebrated on the third Monday of January each year, is not only a tribute to Dr. King’s enduring legacy but also a call to service – an invitation to each of us to contribute positively to our community.

Growth & Renewal

Jan 5 2024

Happy New Year! As we step into the vibrant season of growth and renewal, I am filled with immense pride and excitement to welcome each one of you back to the second half of our school year. The Canutillo Independent School District stands as a beacon of excellence and resilience, and as your Superintendent, I am thrilled to embark on this journey with you.

Joyous Holiday Season

Dec 15 2023

As we embark on a well-deserved break, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've shared in the first half of the school year. It has been nothing short of extraordinary, with achievements and successes resonating both inside and outside the classroom. Our students and staff have demonstrated dedication, passion, and a commitment to excellence that makes me incredibly proud to be part of the Canutillo ISD family.

Change on the Horizon

Dec 8 2023

What would you do for your children if you had an additional $19 million? This is not a hypothetical question, it is a stark reality we face every year as our district experiences a significant loss due to students choosing neighboring schools over Canutillo.

Commendable Commitment

Dec 1 2023

My administration has conducted a thorough study of out-bound transfers within our district and it has come to our attention that nearly 1,800 students, who reside within the boundaries of Canutillo ISD, have chosen to enroll in schools elsewhere. With our total enrollment standing at 5,900 students, this figure holds significant weight and prompts us to reflect on the factors influencing these decisions.

Gratitude & Reflection

Nov 17 2023

As we approach the season of gratitude and reflection, I find myself compelled to express my heartfelt thanks to the incredible community of Canutillo. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as your Superintendent for the past 11 years, and as I pen this Thanksgiving message, my heart is filled with gratitude for the extraordinary sense of community that defines Canutillo.

Salute to Veterans

Nov 10 2023

It is with immense pride and gratitude that I extend warm wishes to all on this upcoming Veterans Day.
On this day, we come together as a community to honor and express our deepest appreciation to the brave men and women who have selflessly dedicated themselves to serving our nation in the armed forces.

Exceptional Eagles

Nov 3 2023

I am thrilled to share the outstanding accomplishments of three remarkable groups of students from Canutillo High School, highlighting their incredible dedication and achievements at our recent Board of Trustees regular board meeting. Despite the challenges faced by CHS this year, these recognitions reaffirm our unwavering commitment to putting our students at the forefront of all that we do.

Excellence, Growth & Opportunity

Oct 27 2023

I want to share an important update on the state of our school district's facilities and the steps we are taking to secure the best possible learning spaces for our students. In recent years, we have faced challenges, particularly the defeat of two bond referendums that would have been instrumental in modernizing our facilities.

Combating Violence

Oct 6 2023

The District last week was impacted by a rash of student fights as well as unsubstantiated threats of violence that left many parents, students and community members concerned about safety and security in our schools. I fully understand the dozens and dozens of calls I personally received about these issues and I want to reassure you that we are taking these very seriously.

Safety & Success

Sep 29 2023

Today, I want to address an issue that has been of concern to us all - the recent series of student fights that have occurred at Canutillo High School. First and foremost, I want to reassure you that the safety and well-being of our students, teachers, and staff remain our top priority.

Improving Student Outcomes

Sep 22 2023

On Monday and Tuesday, I had the privilege of participating in an intensive training session with our Board of Trustees as part of the Lone Star Governance (LSG) program, initiated by the Texas Education Agency. The training, which took place here in El Paso, aims to strengthen the way school districts like ours are governed, ultimately benefiting our students.

Homage to Hispanic Heritage

Sep 15 2023

As we gather to celebrate the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month, it is with great pride and respect that we reflect upon the rich Mexican-American roots that run deep within our district. This month, we honor the enduring spirit, contributions and cultural heritage of our Hispanic community, which has played an integral role in shaping the Canutillo we know and love today.

Bright, Healthy Futures

Sep 8 2023

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott this week made a decision to expand the deployment of NARCAN, a life-saving medication, to all Texas law enforcement agencies – including the police forces that help protect school districts. While I am pleased to inform you that our Canutillo ISD Police Department already possesses NARCAN, we commend the Governor's prudent decision to extend its availability and update our current supplies.

Creating Safe Havens

Sep 1 2023

Our commitment to providing a secure learning environment remains steadfast, and I want to share some updates regarding the implementation of Texas House Bill 3, which focuses on enhancing school safety. We are dedicated to ensuring that our campuses are safe havens where our students can learn, thrive, and grow without any concerns about their well-being.

Advocating for Academics

Aug 25 2023

I am writing to share a significant and important update regarding our ongoing commitment to provide the best possible education for our students. It is with great pride and responsibility that I inform you that the Canutillo Independent School District has taken a proactive step to advocate for the rights and interests of our students, educators and community.

Updates on CISD Health Insurance

Aug 18 2023

As you may know, we are dealing with a difficult budget season this school year. The Board approved a budget that included a deficit of $3 million largely in part to the inability by the state to disseminate any of the billions of dollars in surplus funding available down to public education.

Welcome Back

Aug 4 2023

On Monday, the families of 6,000 students entrusted us with their kids when they dropped them off at any of 10 schools for the first day of classes. That commitment we make every year to not only educate, but also shape and mold the children of our community is one every educator takes seriously. It is, in fact, the core value behind our profession.

School Safety

Jul 28 2023

The Canutillo Independent School District is ready to welcome our 6,000 back to school on Monday and we are excited to start the 2023-24 academic year. As always, on top of our focus on academics and extracurricular activities, our priorities remain in maintaining safe campuses where students can concentrate on learning rather than worrying about their security.

Priming our Principals

Jul 21 2023

This week, Associate Superintendent Dr. Debra Kerney, Executive Director of Curriculum & Instruction Jesica Arellano and I spent time in Austin to attend the first session of the Leadership Collaborative at the Holdsworth Center.

Mastering the New School Year

Jul 14 2023

Our administrators and staff (instructional staff excluded) came back to work this week after a much-deserved week off for the summer. Our curriculum-connected administrators got right back on track by attending a two-day retreat designed to outline our goals and guidelines for the upcoming academic year, which starts on July 31.

Happy Fourth of July

Jun 30 2023

Starting on Monday, July 3, our offices will be closed for a week so that our year-long employees can have a chance to rest and re-energize in anticipation of the upcoming 2023-24 school year, which starts on July 31.

A Bright Beginning

Jun 23 2023

This week, the Canutillo Independent School District announced the expansion of its Early Childhood Education Program at Canutillo Elementary and Davenport Elementary with programs designed specifically for 3-year-olds in our community.

Dad Diligence

Jun 16 2023

As we head into the weekend, it’s important to recognize the men in our community who have a hand in educating the children of Canutillo ISD. Sunday is Fathers Day and our District is fortunate to have a myriad of dads and dad-adjacent figures who go above and beyond in their efforts to care for and love the families that make up our District. Let’s honor these men as the critical part of the education equation they are.

The Canutillo Way

Jun 9 2023

One of the most frequent comments we get as educators is: It must be so nice to get the summer off when the school year ends. While the vast majority of our instruction-connected employees deservingly do have the summer off to rest and recharge, many of us in the world of public education work through the break in order to get schools ready for the upcoming school year.

Ask. Seek. Knock

Jun 2 2023

On Wednesday, the District celebrated the accomplishment and achievements of the Canutillo High School Class of 2023. On that day, nearly 400 students wore their caps and gowns to receive the diploma they worked so hard for. It was a great ceremony jam packed with parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters, friends and extended families, all who came together to celebrate this magnificent rite of passage for our young students.

Cool for the Summer

May 26 2023

Friday marked the official end of the 2022-23 school year in Canutillo ISD. Our kids did what they needed to do to advance academically, and our teachers excelled in preparing them to move on to the next level. All in all, this was a successful year because high-level teaching and learning happened in every corner of the District. Congratulations, Canutillo!

Find your Ikigai

May 19 2023

I had the pleasure of delivering an address at the 2023 commencement exercises for Northwest Early College High School on Thursday evening at the historic Plaza Theatre. The ceremony was beautiful and it perfectly captured the accomplishments of the more than 70 members of the Griffin Class of 2023. Congratulations graduates!

Griffin Excellence

May 12 2023

This weekend, the National Center for Urban School Transformation reiterated something we in Canutillo have known for a very long time. During a special presentation in San Diego, they named Northwest Early College High School as one of only eight schools in the country to receive the title of America’s Best School.

¡Viva Canutillo!

May 5 2023

The Canutillo Independent School District last week honored the people that make our school system operate like clockwork: our teachers and staff. The District had its first-ever CISD Teacher of the Year and Auxiliary Employee of the Year Awards Ceremony at Canutillo High School and the event was a star-studded gala.

Thank you Awesome Admins

Apr 28 2023

The calendar is marked with tons of fun and inventive holidays that often keep our schools motivated and happy. Whether it is National Donut Day (June 2), Wear Brown Shoes Day (Dec. 4) or even Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day (Feb. 4), our schools and offices find ways to celebrate almost on a daily basis.

Roadmap to Success

Apr 14 2023

On Thursday evening, more than 40 community members gathered in the Canutillo ISD boardroom to take part in an exercise we feel will be a catalyst for great things to come. The group of students, employees, parents, taxpayers, civic leaders, business owners and religious leaders are part of the Canutillo 2028 Strategic Plan Advisory Committee.

Awesome APs

Apr 7 2023

As a community, we want to create environments where students not only feel welcomed and embraced, we want them to also feel empowered. Parents send us their kids so that we can provide them with a world class education. In that regard, I feel our teachers are doing a great job.

The Gift of Knowledge

Mar 31 2023

The week of April 6-10 is Gifted & Talented Awareness Week, a week when we celebrate our students and educators who have demonstrated a unique approach to teaching and learning. This recognition was created to increase awareness and encourage support of gifted education in Texas.

Helping Hands for Houston

Mar 24 2023

The Texas Education Agency over the spring break announced that it would take over the Houston Independent School District and replace both its superintendent and board of trustees with an appointed Board of Managers. The main reason given for this action is chronic student underperformance at one inner-city high school.

Hats off to Terrific Teachers

Mar 3 2023

Canutillo ISD this week received an amazing email. It’s one of those letters that truly make your entire day. That email from the Texas Education Agency let us know that our submission to become a Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) school district had been accepted.

Orange Out

Feb 24 2023

Students and staff throughout the Canutillo Independent School District today are wearing their favorite orange gear in an Orange Out of the District. The purpose of this celebration is to cheer on the Canutillo High School Varsity Boys Basketball Team that will be playing in the Area Round of the Texas Playoffs tonight against Amarillo High School in Andrews, Texas.

Working Toward Safe Learning Environments

Feb 17 2023

Our hearts skipped a beat this Wednesday when news broke out that a shooting had taken place at the food court of Cielo Vista Mall – mere yards away from the site of the senseless attack on El Paso that happened on Aug. 3, 2019, at a nearby Walmart.

Driving Dual-Language

Feb 10 2023

Canutillo ISD this week played host to Montserrat Garibay, the Department of Education’s Acting Assistant Deputy Secretary and Director for the Office of English Language Acquisition.

Discover our Glory

Feb 3 2023

February is Black History Month and the Canutillo Independent School District joins the rest of the country in celebrating the contributions, impact and stories that the African-American community have had on our school district, city, state and nation.

Community Counts

Jan 27 2023

The District earlier this month conducted a survey seeking to measure sentiment around the state of facilities in our school district. More specifically, we wanted to determine which aspect of our infrastructure needs were deemed the most critical to our stakeholders.

Celebrating the Arts

Jan 20 2023

Next week, the Canutillo ISD Administration Building will host a very special event. Students from Northwest Early College High School will gather at the Galería Canutillo to unveil the District’s first visual arts exhibit in nearly six years.

Respect & Equality

Jan 13 2023

As we head into the three-day weekend, I want to mark the importance of the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday.

Happy New Year

Jan 6 2023

Happy New Year! Our students and staff are back from the winter break and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome them back for the spring semester. We hope that everyone had a restful and happy break. We know you have been hard at work in helping us retain the title of the Best Small School District in Texas and El Paso’s Triple-A Rated School District!

Happy Holidays Canutillo

Dec 16 2022

The classrooms and offices of the Canutillo Independent School District are filled with the joyous sounds of the holidays and our students and employees are certainly excited about the idea of the upcoming winter break.

Elevating Etiquette

Dec 9 2022

This week, hundreds of Canutillo fifth-graders boarded school buses and headed down to the CISD Central Office Boardroom to take part in a very special lesson. Girls in fine dresses and boys in suit jackets filled our administrative offices with laughter and a deep desire to learn new things.

Season of Giving

Dec 2 2022

With the Thanksgiving break now behind us, the District is moving full swing into the Holiday Season. Yes, this means you’ll soon see tons of Christmas lights, festive trees and even a menorah or two at our campuses and offices. But most importantly, this also means that our schools and students will kick off their season of giving.

Gratitude & Diligence

Nov 18 2022

As the District gets ready to head into the long Thanksgiving Break, I have some time to reflect on the concept of gratitude that is prevalent throughout our schools and learning communities.

Thank You Veterans

Nov 11 2022

Election Day was a disappointing one for us here in the Canutillo Independent School District. Voters rejected the Every Child, Every School Canutillo Bond that would have helped us address critical needs in the District pertaining to safety and security, growth, building equity and student programming.

Your Voice, Your Vote

Nov 4 2022

After several weeks of campaigning and hard work, Election Day is upon us. Voters throughout the country will head to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 8, to pick governors, senators, congress members, city council members, county commissioners and school trustees.

What's Cooking

Oct 28 2022

Friday morning was a delicious one in the Canutillo Independent School District as cooks from every kitchen in the District gathered at Canutillo High School for the first ever CISD Child Nutrition Services Menudo Cook Off.

Great Food, Great Company

Oct 21 2022

I had the pleasure of visiting several of our campuses during the fall semester Parent-Teacher Conferences this week (and last week for Northwest Early College High School) and I was heartened by the support and dedication our moms, dads and grandparents showcased in their effort to be part of their kids’ educational experience.

Rest & Celebration

Oct 7 2022

This week, while most students got the first of much-deserved two-week break, hundreds of students throughout the Canutillo Independent School District spent their day back in the classroom getting additional instruction to help them meet their academic goals for the school year.

Happy Intersession

Sep 30 2022

For nine weeks now, our students and staff have been hard at work teaching and learning the subjects they need to be successful. It’s hard to believe that the first day of school was that long ago, but time flies when you’re having fun.

Celebrate Good Times, Come On

Sep 23 2022

Homecoming week is a time of celebration and pride. All week long we have seen tremendous participation from every campus in our deep desire to show that the Spirit of Canutillo is alive and well.

Eagle Pride Soars To Infinity & Beyond

Sep 16 2022

Aside from the abundance of pumpkin spice in the air, we know fall is right around the corner when Homecoming season begins. We are excited to kickoff another year of fun and festivities to celebrate Canutillo High School Homecoming happening the week of September 19 - 23.

Celebrating Our A Rated Campuses

Sep 9 2022

I spent a good part of my Friday traveling throughout the District to honor those campuses that performed at such high levels that the Texas Education Agency awarded them an A Rating during this past round of accountability assessments.

Canutillo’s Montessori Guides Key To Success Of Our Program

Sep 2 2022

Earlier this week we made the exciting announcement that Canutillo ISD will launch the first public Montessori program in El Paso County at Garcia Elementary School later this month.

Serving Every Child, Every School

Aug 26 2022

The Board of Trustees on Monday, Aug. 22, voted to send the voters of the District a bond referendum we’ve called “Every Child, Every School.” The election, if approved by the voters, would allow the District to address critical needs at schools and facilities in four main areas: safety and security, growth, equity and student programming.

Best Weekend Ever

Aug 19 2022

Without a doubt, Canutillo ISD had one of its best weekends … ever! All weekend long I fielded calls and answered text messages from well wishers all over the country that recognized the great work that has been done by the students and staff in the District. I couldn’t be prouder to be the superintendent of this amazing organization.

Grand Slam

Aug 12 2022

Week 2 of school is in the books and I am happy to report that things are back to normal here in the Best Small School District in Texas and we are hitting all the bases. A quick scan of our social media pages will give you a glimpse into the high-level instruction happening in every corner of the District.

Great First Week Of School In The Best Small District In Texas

Aug 5 2022

Canutillo ISD this week welcomed back our students for the 2022-23 academic year and I am delighted to inform you that everything went great. I was able to visit all of our campuses on Monday and was happy to shake hands and pump fists with hundreds of students and parents who were as excited to be back as I was to see them.

Welcome Back CISD Family

Jul 29 2022

Ready. Set. School! The wait is over and it is now time to welcome our kids back to classes for the 2022-23 school year. It is an exciting time for the Canutillo Independent School District and our students as we set out to continue the work our teachers and staff have done to get us to the place we are at: The Best Small School District in Texas.

The Best Start In The Best Small School District In Texas

Jul 22 2022

The start of the 2022-23 school year is fast approaching and I know you share in the excitement with me. This week, we took one step closer to that Aug. 1 start date by welcoming our teachers and other instructional personnel.

Ready, Set, School!

Jul 15 2022

The District today launched theReady, Set, School!Hub to help parents find all the back-to-school information they need ahead of the Aug. 1 back to school start date.

Celebrating Freedom & Democracy

Jul 1 2022

The Canutillo Independent School District will be closed next week in observance of the Fourth of July holiday. It is a time for our employees in the Central Office to recharge and get ready for the upcoming 2022-23 school year. I wish all of our CISD Family members a happy, restful and safe break.

No Place Like Home

Jun 24 2022

The Canutillo ISD Family got a little bigger this week thanks to two important events designed to ease new members of our District into our community.

Be All In!

Jun 17 2022

Happy Father’s Day, Canutillo!This weekend, our families will take time off to celebrate the father and father figures that make our community one of the best places to live in all of Texas.

Summer Sun & Home Runs

Jun 10 2022

Summer is in full swing and that means most of our students and staff are at home taking a well-deserved break.Summertime also means it’s time for baseball in El Paso.

Congrats Class of 2022

Jun 3 2022

I hope you are all enjoying your summer break. As the summer kicks off, we are busy planning for the coming year to make sure it is full of opportunities for all our students to have a fun and successful year. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone back in August.

United with Uvalde

May 27 2022

Unfortunately, we again find ourselves heartbroken and mourning the loss of innocent lives due to another cowardice attack on a school.

The Future Looks Bright

May 20 2022

What a great week for our district, community and society. The largest class of graduates from Northwest Early College High School walked the stage of the Don Haskins Center as their proud family, friends and loved ones eagerly cheered them on.

Growth in Canutillo

May 13 2022

The United States has reached an unfortunate milestone in the pandemic- one million deaths. Every person has been impacted by the health crisis. Many of us have had the virus, know people who became seriously ill or individuals who have passed. As we reflect on the past two years, we need space and time to grieve our losses.

Simply the Best

May 6 2022

We did it! H-E-B confirmed what we have known all along. Canutillo ISD is the Best Small District in Texas! The Excellence in Education Award is a culmination of a group effort that we all played a role in making happen.

Benefits & Considerations

Apr 29 2022

As a district, our focus over the past few months has been how we plan to address our most pressing needs. Deferred maintenance, the overcrowding at Reyes and the need to relocate Central Office remain top priorities and our responsibility to address.

Funds for the Future

Apr 22 2022

Graduation is around the corner! This is an exciting time for our students. Twelve years of hard work are about to pay off. Many of our seniors have an assortment of plans as to what will come next. For many, the next step is college.

Congratulations Teachers Of The Year

Apr 14 2022

As we eagerly await the arrival of the Easter Bunny, let us also remember that Easter is a time of new beginnings, triumph and hope.

Guiding Solutions

Apr 8 2022

The confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson by the United States Senate to serve as the first black female justice to sit on the Supreme Court marked a pivotal point in history. Looking at the greater picture, it is not about political affiliation but about representation.

Growing Stronger Together

Apr 1 2022

“Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.” — Steve Maraboli
As the district’s selection of the elementary and secondary teachers of the year approaches, we are again mindful of the importance of our CISD faculty members.

The Future is Now

Mar 25 2022

Events outside our community can often help us gain an important perspective. These occurrences can prompt us to count our relative blessings and good fortunes.

The Preciousness Of Human Life

Mar 11 2022

Current events have again reminded us of the preciousness, fragility, and fleeting nature of human life. The impacts of global conflict are often inconceivable and reach far beyond physical borders.

Celebrating Staff

Mar 4 2022

Employees represent the heart and soul of any organization. Faculty, staff and leaders can make or break a district. And our people have worked to make CISD a premier school system. They are the essential elements of our success.

Sacrifice & Reflection

Feb 25 2022

Next week is Fat Tuesday or “Mardi Gras,” a tradition started in medieval Europe in the 17th century. Today we celebrate with colorful parades and revelry while indulging in food and fun to kick off Lent and the Easter season.

Spirit of Kindness

Feb 18 2022

This week we have seen across our campuses what a difference a little kindness can make as our students, faculty and staff celebrated Random Acts of Kindness Week.

Super Strides

Feb 11 2022

It is Super Bowl weekend and talk about super, we have a lot of super things happening throughout the District. We welcome a new super principal, honor our super school counselors and our students’ recent performance in computer science and choir competitions make them nothing short of rising super stars.

Staying Cool

Feb 4 2022

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, which means six more weeks of winter. We have definitely felt some blustery winter temps this past couple of days and even got to enjoy some snow.

Surpassing Expectations

Jan 28 2022

At last night's board meeting, we shared the results of our 2020-2021Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR). This report showed that despite a global pandemic that brought many challenges, our students’ academic performance remained strong.

Above & Beyond

Jan 21 2022

There are some awesome things happening across our district. Our staff and students are shining examples of why we are the premier district.

Celebrating the Dream

Jan 14 2022

On Monday, Jan. 17 our district offices and campuses will be closed in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Welcome 2022

Jan 7 2022

Happy New Year! We are excited to welcome students, parents, teachers, and staff back to school for a new year of growing and learning.

Rise Above

Dec 17 2021

I want to extend our thoughts and prayers to the victims of the outbreak of tornadoes that ripped across multiple states causing mass devastation and destruction in their path. Let us continue to pray for the survivors and those who lost their homes and loved ones.

Seeking Solutions

Dec 10 2021

As many of you know, we are facing some critical needs within our district. We must address crucial deferred maintenance projects at our campuses and maximum capacity challenges at Reyes Elementary.

Spread Joy, Not Germs

Dec 3 2021

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday and a restful break. With the holiday season vastly approaching, I am excited for a new year and new opportunities for our students.

Gratitude & Hope

Nov 19 2021

Books belonging to a public high school library are protected under the U.S. Constitution. Not adhering to due process can result in breaches to the fundamental right to freedom of speech protected under our country’s Bill of Rights.

Combating COVID-19

Nov 12 2021

I want to extend a special thank you to our Local City-County Health Authority, Dr. Hector Ocaranza for joining me to inform our Canutillo community on the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic in our city and community.

What Happens Next?

Nov 5 2021

I want to start off by thanking those of you for making a concerted effort to learn about the 2021 Canutillo ISD bond, what it meant for our District, campuses and students and getting out to vote to support projects and initiatives deemed critical by our Just For Kids Committee to efficiently meet the needs of our kids.

Treats, No Tricks

Oct 29 2021

Next week is election day! If you haven’t already hit the polling stations to cast your vote you still have today, Oct. 29, the last day of early voting and of course Tues. Nov. 2, election day. I can’t express enough how important it is to get out to vote.

Come Together

Oct 22 2021

Welcome back! I hope everyone had a restful intersession and is excited to be back. During our break we tragically lost a member of our Canutillo family with the passing of Canutillo High School sophom*ore, Carlos Lerma.

Your Voices, Your Vote

Oct 8 2021

I hope you are all enjoying your time off during intersession. This week as students enjoyed the start of their break teachers and staff got down to the nitty-gritty at our Growth, Resilience, Innovation and Tenacity (GRIT) professional development workshops.

Farewell to an El Paso Icon

Oct 1 2021

Last week the world of academia experienced a great loss with the passing of long-standing UTEP President Emerita Diana Natalicio. She was a trailblazer who transformed public higher education with her belief of providing people from all walks of life with access to an affordable and excellent education.

How Far We've Come

Sep 24 2021

Homecoming is the American tradition of welcoming alumni back to their alma mater to revel in school spirit and indulge in football, friends and fun.

Welcome Home

Sep 17 2021

It is with great sadness that we learned on Sept. 12 of the passing of Mrs. Carolina Reyes, beloved spouse of former U.S. Representative and Congressman Silvestre Reyes.

Better Together

Sep 10 2021

A school district should never be a siloed entity. We are composed of a number of stakeholders who are dedicated and invested in the success of our schools, teachers and most of all our students.

We're in it to Win it

Sep 3 2021

We are now a month into the new school year! I want to thank you for your support as we continue to bounce back from the challenges of 2020 and adjust to a new normal.

The Canutillo 2021 Bond At A Glance

Aug 27 2021

The CISD Board of Trustees voted August 10 to call for a $187.5M bond election with two separate propositions to appear on the Nov. 2, 2021 ballot for school renovations and technology.

Educating Tomorrow’s Best Today

Aug 20 2021

Parents are naturally interested in curricular and instructional practices as they relate to their children. They want assurance that students are engaged in appropriate content taught by competent teachers.

November Bond Election

Aug 13 2021

I’d like to begin by congratulating Ms. Sabina Lazos, from Bill Childress Elementary, for being awarded 3rd place finalist Region 19 Elementary Teacher of the Year! Way to go!

Good Luck Teachers Of The Year!

Aug 6 2021

Welcome to a new and exciting school year! We are thrilled to welcome back the 6,200 students to our school campuses. We missed the bustling hallways filled with those beautiful smiles, the sound of laughter, and the minds hungry for knowledge.

Back-To-School

Jul 30 2021

Throughout American history, students from various generations have endured special challenges. Wars, economic depressions and pandemics are examples of significant events that have impacted education.

Homecoming

Jul 23 2021

A house is made of walls and beams; a home is built with love and dreams.” (Unknown) Merriam Webster Dictionary defines “homecoming” as: “the return of a group of people usually on a special occasion to a place formerly frequented or regarded as home.”

CISD Forges Ahead In 2021

Jul 16 2021

Made stronger by hardship, wiser by challenge and unified by adversity - CISD forges ahead in 2021. CISD welcomes students, faculty and staff back for the 2021-22 school year. I hope that this message finds you and your family in good health.

Do the Right Thing

Jun 25 2021

Some people claim that our society is losing its sense of moral and ethical responsibility. However, good deeds often work to prove this perception wrong.

August Back To In-Person Instruction

Jun 18 2021

It seems, at times, that when we are in the midst of a storm in life that it will never end. We are consumed by darkness with little hope of light. But the tempest does pass and the sun rises, often giving us a renewed appreciation for life.

School Year Comes to an End

Jun 11 2021

This week, 363 seniors from Canutillo High School walked across the stage to receive their diplomas. The CHS class of 2021 has received over $2.4 million in scholarships!

Together: Shaping The District’s Future Being Collaborative, Inclusive And Transparent

Jun 4 2021

This week, Canutillo ISD hosted the secondJust for Kidscommittee meeting at Canutillo High School.

Memorial Day Weekend

May 28 2021

As we pause on this Memorial Day to honor and mourn all the brave members of the military who died in service to our country, let us also remember other groups of courageous individuals, especially those who have emerged during the health crisis.

Graduation Season

May 21 2021

It’s graduation season and some of our graduates will be walking the stage for their diplomas next week!

Canutillo Grows

May 14 2021

Happy Friday! Our teachers and administrators have had their hands full preparing students for the STAAR, end-of-course exams, and gearing up for graduation. There is so much to be thankful for as we wind down the school year.

May Celebrations

May 7 2021

May is full of activities and events with lots to celebrate! As we wrap up teacher appreciation week, we thank our amazing teachers for being you and having a positive impact on our children all year long.

Teacher Appreciation Week

Apr 30 2021

Last week, a verdict was delivered in the death of George Floyd. This verdict offers important lessons. We should love and respect our neighbors and always act to protect and save lives, not take them.

Thank You Administrative Professionals

Apr 23 2021

We were happy to celebrate Administrative Professionals Day this week with every administrative support team member who makes Canutillo ISD run smoothly and efficiently.

2021-2022 Teachers Of The Year

Apr 16 2021

Lee Iacocca, a famous automobile executive, said, “In a completely rational society, the best of us would be teachers and the rest of us would have to settle for something else.”

Testing

Apr 9 2021

It is that time of year when we annually recognize and reward Canutillo ISD teachers and staff who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence.

Spring Events

Apr 1 2021

This week, we paused for a moment to remember and recognize a man who stood for workers' rights, civil rights, environmental justice, and non-violence.

Fruits of Spring

Mar 26 2021

Our country has endured another string of mass shootings. Every time El Pasoans hear of these devastating events, it revives painful memories of our own tragedy - the Walmart shooting on August 3, 2019.

Anniversaries

Mar 12 2021

We all pause when anniversaries come around. Some anniversaries have positive connotations, like Independence Day.

COVID-19 Protocols Remain Unchanged

Mar 5 2021

Texas Governor Abbott recently issued an executive order lifting the mask mandate and opening businesses to 100% capacity effective March 10.

Remembering & Honoring

Feb 26 2021

On behalf of Canutillo ISD, we are deeply saddened about the loss of Dr. Karen Trujillo, Superintendent of Las Cruces Public Schools. As you grieve, know that we are remembering and honoring her.

March Calendar

Feb 19 2021

Texas has been enveloped by a winter storm of historic proportions. Our state neighbors to the east have suffered from ongoing power outages and water shortages.

Love in Education

Feb 12 2021

Congratulations to our Canutillo High School girls basketball team who defeated Burges High School 66-65 in overtime on Feb. 11, 2021 leading Canutillo to the 5A girls bi-district win!

National School Counseling Week

Feb 5 2021

We had a great week as more of our students have returned physically to school. We welcome their return and continue to promote safety with the 3 Ws - wear a mask, wash your hands and watch your distance.

Moving Forward

Jan 29 2021

As per the Texas Education Agency (TEA), the safety zones plan is set to expire on January 31, 2021, marking a return to in-person instruction.

Spring Semester Commitment Forms

Jan 22 2021

This has been another eventful week both nationally and locally. First, let's follow in the path of our new 46th president’s call to move forward in unity – to come together in this historic moment of crisis and challenge.

Hope for the Future

Jan 15 2021

The upcoming Presidential Inauguration, COVID vaccine rollout and preparations for a return to school all give hope for a better tomorrow. But let us reflect on the good that has come from the health crisis - the unintended positive effects.

School Board Appreciation Month

Jan 8 2021

January is School Board Appreciation Month. We are particularly appreciative of our CISD trustees this year.

Region 19 School Safe Zones - Updates

Dec 31 2020

We hope you are enjoying your family and celebrating the holidays safely. Here is a quick update on recent developments.

The Post-Pandemic Classroom

Dec 18 2020

The roll-out of new COVID-19 vaccines in the months ahead offers great hope for a full return to the physical classroom.

Spread Christmas Cheer

Dec 11 2020

With the holidays rapidly approaching, we are reminded about what is most important in our lives. We have learned to appreciate one another and enjoy the blessings that we have.

Looking Towards the Future

Dec 4 2020

Some have said that we are facing the worst health crisis our country has ever experienced. Infection, hospitalization and death rates are particularly high in the El Paso region as compared to the rest of the nation.

Thanksgiving 2020

Nov 20 2020

We enter the holiday season with a mix of caution and hope. Health authorities have issued strong warnings about gathering together for Thanksgiving.

Let's all do our Part

Nov 13 2020

As we announced last week, beginning Monday, November 16, our District will be participating in the COVID-19 Rapid Testing Program.

Student Attendance, Engagement and Support

Nov 6 2020

Since COVID-19 infected our world and community, our medical authorities and providers have been doing everything that they can think of to protect us while we preserve the essential necessities of life.

Covid-19 On-Campus Instructional Plan Message from the Superintendent

Oct 30 2020

This was another very eventful week addressing the safety of students, teachers, and staff, and I want to give you an update on our latest course of action.

Canutillo ISD Waiver Granted By TEA

Oct 23 2020

On September 14, 2020 Canutillo ISD opened its doors to in-person instruction after meeting 3 guiding metrics.

Fall Intersession Extended

Oct 16 2020

I hope that many of you are enjoying your fall intersession break. I want to take this opportunity to bring you up to date on an important decision we made today.

Circle the Wagons

Oct 9 2020

Since the beginning of the health crisis, the district has been informed by experts in the field. These authorities look to objective measures, to facts, when forming their guidance. We work together with the safety and welfare of our community foremost in mind.

Remote Instruction Recommended Starting Monday, October 5

Oct 2 2020

We continue to monitor the increasing number of COVID 19 cases in our region. As a result, due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, the health department is advising districts to not increase the number of students receiving in-person instruction.

COVID-19 Dashboard

Sep 25 2020

The time has come for us to face the reality of the current situation in the world today. Our mission, as educators, is to prepare our students for their careers and success in life. A worldwide pandemic is just one of the many trials challenging our resolve to this mission.

1st Week Of In-Person Instruction

Sep 18 2020

Welcome back to campus. We have missed our students. I spent much of my week visiting each campus, to see many of their faces for the first time since this all began in March.

Schools Reopening For In-Person Instruction

Sep 11 2020

Canutillo ISD is excited and prepared to welcome students back to campuses to continue their studies on Monday, September 14 in a phased-in approach designed to safely reopen schools.

Schools Will Transition To In-Person Instruction Beginning Sept. 14

Aug 28 2020

As we reimagine learning, the time to enter the next phase of instruction is nearing! We are planning to open our school doors onMonday, September 14and safely transition our kids back gradually to in-person learning.

Teamwork

Aug 21 2020

On April 17, 1970, NASA’s Apollo 13 spacecraft successfully returned to earth. However, just days before, an onboard explosion made this positive outcome extremely unlikely. Today, the Apollo 13 story has become a case study in the power of teamwork and improvisation.

Welcoming Students Back

Aug 14 2020

We welcome back students remotely on Monday, August 17, 2020 and are excited to begin another school year in Canutillo ISD. This decision was made with the safety of our entire school community in mind.

Student Safety And Prevention Protocols

Aug 7 2020

Benjamin Franklin famously proclaimed that “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Canutillo ISD is planning to open its doors again to students, staff and faculty for onsite/remote instruction.

Welcome Back Teachers!

Jul 31 2020

As we gear up for the new school year and celebrate the return of our teachers on Monday, August 3, we will pause to remember a solemn event, which occurred in El Paso last summer.

Register Your Child, School Starts Aug. 17th

Jul 23 2020

I hope everyone is doing well and staying safe. We are eagerly preparing for the 2020-2021 school year and looking forward to all the new learning opportunities!

Canutillo ISD Delays School Start Date For Students

Jul 17 2020

As mentioned in previous updates, we have been flexible in terms of our planning for a return to school. As Dr. Anthony Fauci stated - we don’t determine the timeline, the virus does. In the greater El Paso region, COVID-19 is determining the schedule.

Canutillo Reopening Plan

Jul 10 2020

Today, the local health authority for El Paso Countyissued an orderthat all independent school districts shall not reopen schools for on-campus, face-to-face instruction until after September 7, 2020. This order is consistent with our own Canutillo plan.

Planning During Uncertainty

Jul 3 2020

The only thing certain about this pandemic is uncertainty. The only aspect of this health crisis that is predictable is its unpredictability. Texas is now among the nation’s hotspots in terms of virus spread. Correspondingly, new cases in El Paso are increasing each day.

Canutillo ISD Reopening Plan

Jul 3 2020

We know that there is one question on the minds of our district’s parents, students, employees, and community members:What will school look like in the fall?