As the bell rang in the 2025-2026 school year, students filed into the Socorro Independent School District’s 51 campuses on Aug. 4, eager to begin a new chapter of success alongside their teachers, parents, school administrators and district leadership.
SISD Interim Superintendent James Vasquez, the lone finalist for superintendent of schools, took the opportunity to welcome students and their families across the district to a new school year filled with endless opportunities.
“I’m looking forward to a great year filled with positive energy and great vibes,” Vasquez said. “I think our students are going to achieve outstanding grades, win lots of championships, and we’re going to keep building this momentum throughout the school year.”
Path toward student achievement
On the first day of school, students like Aneth Aranda, a third grader at Dr. Sue Shook Elementary School, felt confident about the high academic goals they set for the new school year.
They were encouraged by the promising results of the preliminary 2025 State of Texas Assessments Academic Readiness (STAAR) results. SISD has increased the number of A-rated schools, decreased C-rated campuses, and does not anticipate any D or F schools in the district. SISD students lead the region in reading in grades 3 through 8, eighth grade social studies, English II, U.S. history, and algebra I.
This year, Aranda is excited to earn good grades, make new friends, connect with new teachers, and learn more about civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. in her social studies class.
“I’m looking forward to accomplishing more goals and doing something out of my comfort zone,” Aranda said. “I love social studies because it’s old history. I like to learn about Martin Luther King Jr. It’s just so cool.”
At Benito Martinez Elementary, Jonathan Cruz, a second grader, planned to shine in the classroom.
“I’m looking forward to behaving, getting straight As, and being an all-star student!” Cruz said.
Opportunities for student success
SISD provides a high-quality, rigorous, and relevant education that prepares students for a prosperous future, starting with excellent teachers and a solid educational foundation in Pre-K. The district provides free Pre-K for both 3- and 4-year-olds, ensuring that every child, like Leslie Gutierrez, can succeed.
On her first day of Pre-K at Purple Heart Elementary School, Leslie Gutierrez's dad, Sergio Gutierrez, felt a mix of sadness and excitement as he dropped her off.
“I know she's really excited,” Sergio Gutierrez said. “She loves it and wants to make friends. We're happy for her and ready for her to start learning.”
SISD offers a wide range of opportunities for students of all ages. These include elementary academies, a dual language academy, free college courses, advanced academic academies, leading comprehensive special education, award-winning fine arts, championship athletics, advanced career and technical training and world-class facilities.
Americas High School senior Julius Sigala said his involvement in the school's student council has helped him overcome his shyness and has provided him with the confidence and communication skills necessary to pursue a medical career after graduation.
“I know (going) back to school can seem very scary, whether it's your new classes, the people you're meeting or the start of a new club. But it's definitely worth it. Don't try to stop yourself from joining something,” Sigala said. “People are going to like you for who you are. At the end of the day, it's all about meeting new people and being your own self.”
A new chapter of success — together
As the school year progresses, faculty, staff, and administrators are dedicated to working together to support students in their new academic journey.
At Ernesto Serna Fine Arts Academy, Principal Raul Caldera said his staff had been preparing all summer to welcome back the Wolf Pack, ensuring that students not only learn but also have fun in a safe environment.
“Our dance teacher, our cheer team, our teachers, our custodial team, our secretaries have been working all summer to be ready for this first day to make it seamless and to give the best customer service to our parents. We are here for them and our students, and we will make sure we showcase the best every single day.”
Alexandra Bustamante, the campus secretary at Sun Ridge Middle School, said the close-knit campus was excited to welcome new and returning students to a fantastic school year.
“We’re one big family,” Bustamante said. “I think this is the most welcoming campus I’ve ever been to. We are a family, so it’s been nice to be able to welcome them with open arms.”