In a pivotal meeting held on May 19, 2025, the El Paso Independent School District's Board of Trustees gathered to discuss the future of the district's strategic blueprint and the evaluation process for Superintendent Dr. Iveta Saavedra. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as board members prepared to delve into the details of a plan that aims to shape the educational landscape for students in El Paso.

Dr. Saavedra opened the session by highlighting her multifaceted role, which encompasses overseeing community schools, managing federal grants, and ensuring the strategic plan aligns with the district's mission. She emphasized the importance of community input in shaping the district's goals, recalling the "Hopes and Dreams" initiative launched in 2022, where parents and community members shared their aspirations for their children’s education. This feedback has been instrumental in developing the district's strategic blueprint, which is set to evolve as the current plan approaches its conclusion.

The board's discussions centered around the metrics used to evaluate the superintendent's performance, which are tied closely to the district's strategic goals. Dr. Saavedra explained that the evaluation process includes a transparent system of key targets and essential actions, designed to hold her accountable while also fostering community trust. The board has established 25 key targets, with specific metrics to track progress in areas such as student participation in extracurricular activities and the expansion of learning opportunities.

One notable change discussed was the shift in how student participation is measured. In response to board feedback, the district will now track individual student participation in activities rather than just total participation numbers. This adjustment aims to ensure that every child has the opportunity to engage in meaningful extracurricular experiences, reflecting the board's commitment to fostering a supportive environment for all students.

As the meeting progressed, the board members were reminded of their upcoming formative evaluations, which will provide ongoing feedback to Dr. Saavedra. These evaluations are designed to be collaborative, allowing trustees to assess progress and suggest adjustments based on real-time data. The summative evaluation is scheduled for September, marking a critical point in the accountability process.

The discussions at this special meeting underscored the district's commitment to transparency and community engagement. As the board prepares to gather further input from the community in the fall, the future of the El Paso Independent School District's strategic direction remains a collaborative effort, rooted in the hopes and dreams of its students and families. The outcome of these initiatives will not only shape the educational experience for current students but also set a precedent for future generations in El Paso.