The stage lights may have dimmed for the summer, but the Fine Arts programs at Ysleta ISD continue to rack up state and national awards as the new school year approaches, with a reputation for excellence in music, theater, visual arts, and dance that provides a welcome, encouraging place for students across the El Paso region.

 Stealing the Show: Theatre Arts

For the second year in a row, Ysleta ISD was among only 28 in Texas to be named an Exemplary District by the Texas Educational Theatre Association in June for its outstanding work and support of theatre education – a reflection of the passion and hard work of teachers and students who ensure that the performing arts remain a vital, thriving part of school culture.

 “We applaud Ysleta ISD for their remarkable efforts in promoting theatre arts,” said TxETA Past President Travis Springfield. “Their program serves as a model of creativity, community, and educational excellence.”

 And The Beat Goes On…

From winning Congressional contests to state championship performances to being named a premier community in the world of fine arts, Ysleta ISD continued to capture prestigious statewide and national awards in the 2025-26 school year, including:

·    Premier Community for Theatre Education from the National Educational Theatre Association for 2024-2027, highlighting Ysleta ISD’s exceptional commitment to theatre education and support of the arts;

·    Two-time Premier Community for Theatre Education Award from the Texas Thespians for exceptional commitment to theatre education and student achievement;

·    For the sixth consecutive time, an Ysleta ISD student wins the annual Congressional Art Competition for District 16! Hanks High School winner Ana Ortiz Zazueta’s artwork, “The Land I Grew Up On,” will be on display for one year the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C.;

·    At the 2026 UIL State Mariachi Festival championships, both Del Valle High School’s Mariachi Los Conquistadores and Hanks High School’s Mariachi Los Trovadores win the highest ratings possible – Division I Superior – from all three judges.