El Paso ISD awarded $75,478 subgrant for homeless students; board approves Cantera internet extension with E-rate discount

El Paso — El Paso Independent School District announced a $75,478 award from the 2024–2025 Texas Education for Homeless Children and Youth subgrant and reported multiple board approvals to support students and digital access.

"These funds will help us provide critical services to our homeless student population including transportation, college tours, bus tokens, professional development, and essential supplies," Superintendent Diana Syaevethra said, describing the district’s planned uses for the subgrant.

In other formal actions, Syaevethra said the board approved an extension of high-speed internet services through Cantera Ultra Broadband LLC to continue districtwide connectivity. She said that thanks to the federal E-rate program the district will receive an "80% discount," which will significantly reduce costs while expanding digital capabilities for campuses and administrative offices.

The board also approved purchases of professional development materials and services to support International Baccalaureate programs at Andrews High School, Coronado High School and several middle schools; Syaevethra said the funding will help sustain rigorous academic opportunities that prepare students for college and careers.

The meeting remarks did not record roll-call vote tallies or the names of motion movers and seconders. Specific contract amounts for the internet extension and professional development purchases were not provided in the comments on the record.