The Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees for the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) took place on May 19, 2025, focusing on student engagement and the impact of recent school closures. The meeting featured a presentation from members of the Student Advisory Council (Super Sac), who emphasized the importance of student voice in decision-making processes.

Dominic Torres, a representative from Trans Mountain Early College, opened the discussion by highlighting concerns regarding the closure of Lamar Elementary, a school that had shown positive outcomes despite its economically disadvantaged status. Torres urged the board to consider the implications of these closures, particularly in light of the positive feedback received from the Panorama survey, which assesses student experiences and satisfaction.

The students collectively expressed the need for the board to listen to their perspectives and to utilize the Panorama survey data to inform future decisions. They argued that schools with strong performance metrics should not be closed, as this undermines the educational opportunities for students.

Following this, the council members discussed their initiatives aimed at supporting students during transitions, particularly in light of the district's recent restructuring. They proposed community-building activities, such as field days and orientation events, to foster connections among students from different campuses. The goal is to create a supportive environment that facilitates smoother transitions and ongoing engagement throughout the school year.

The presentation concluded with a call for year-round support systems, rather than one-time events, to ensure that students feel connected and supported as they adapt to new educational settings. The students emphasized the importance of continuous feedback through the Panorama surveys to monitor their experiences and make necessary adjustments.

The meeting wrapped up with a recognition ceremony for the students involved in Super Sac, acknowledging their hard work and contributions to the district. The board expressed appreciation for the students' insights and their role in driving positive change within EPISD. The session underscored the district's commitment to valuing student input and fostering an inclusive educational environment.