El Paso ISD students say state conference showcased district culture and boosted leadership

Student leaders from El Paso Independent School District told the school board on May 19 that hosting the Texas Association of Student Councils conference in Arlington gave the district visibility across the state and strengthened campus leadership programs.

The student presenters said Coronado and Burgess high schools served as host campuses and that delegations from across Texas attended. Mark Boss, assistant superintendent for secondary schools, said the presentations reflected a year of student collaboration and that the event allowed students to “share their voice” with trustees.

Students described decorations and performances that emphasized El Paso culture — mariachi bands, a drumline, choir and dance — and credited the event with giving the district a statewide platform. Lucas Ramirez, representing Coronado High School, said the experience made him “prideful of El Paso.”

Presenters also highlighted student-led mental-health efforts launched on campuses. Mia Bautista, representing Burgess High School, described a planned “Bluebonnet Room,” intended as a quiet space where students can “take a moment to breathe” and trigger staff support through daily SEL (social-emotional learning) check-ins using the PBIS Rewards app.

Students said the conference offered networking, leadership training and examples of campus initiatives to replicate, including peer-led campaigns on mental health and community service projects. The group urged continued district support for student voice, noting that student-driven initiatives have led to district changes in the past.

The board recognized the SuperSAC participants and invited them to a reception following the presentations.