Two elementary schools in the Ysleta Independent School District have achieved a historic milestone for the El Paso region. Glen Cove Elementary and Presa Elementary were named to Governor Greg Abbott’s 2026 Lone Star Ribbon Schools list, making them the first schools in the city to earn the distinction.
What the Lone Star Ribbon means
The Lone Star Ribbon program, established by Governor Abbott, honors Texas public schools that demonstrate “outstanding academic performance.” To qualify, a campus must receive an “A” rating from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and show consistent student success over time. This year, only 25 schools statewide earned the honor.
Local schools rise to the top
Both Glen Cove and Presa Elementary have maintained “A” ratings for the past five years, a testament to the dedication of teachers, staff, families, and community leaders. YISD Superintendent Xavier De La Torre called the achievement “an incredibly proud moment” and emphasized that it reflects a school community that believes in every student’s potential.
Governor Abbott’s support for education
Governor Abbott praised the accomplishment, stating, “Young Texans are the future of our state, and it is critical that they have access to a high‑quality education. We will invest in the students, teachers, staff, and parents who are essential to building a bigger, brighter Texas for generations to come.” The governor’s statement underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening families and faith‑based values through strong educational foundations.
Why this matters for El Paso families
For parents in El Paso, the recognition signals that local schools are delivering the academic excellence promised by the Texas Education Agency. It also highlights the importance of community involvement—parents, churches, and neighborhood groups have played a vital role in supporting school initiatives, reinforcing the traditional family values that underpin strong neighborhoods.
Looking ahead
YISD plans to build on this success by continuing to provide resources that foster a safe, values‑centered learning environment. The district’s focus remains on nurturing each child’s potential, preparing them for future academic and civic contributions to Texas.
As the first El Paso schools to receive the Lone Star Ribbon, Glen Cove and Presa set a benchmark for other district campuses. Their achievement serves as a reminder that when families, educators, and community leaders unite around a shared vision, Texas schools can thrive.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
