LETTERS: Building a strong community by supporting youth on the border
In a city that sits at the intersection of two nations, Lydia Patterson Institute (LPI) serves as a bridge for students who cross the border daily. Often, I am asked, "Why support students from Juárez when there is need in El Paso?"
The answer is simple: supporting these students is not just about helping them; it's about investing in El Paso's future and the prosperity of our entire region.LPI provides a safe, faith-based environment where underserved students, many of whom are U.S. citizens, receive critical support and education. Living in two worlds, they navigate cultural, financial, and linguistic challenges with resilience. At LPI, we honor our founder's legacy by equipping these emergent bilinguals with skills for their future and ours, helping to build a stronger, more connected community.
These students are the future teachers, nurses, and leaders of our region. Our graduates go on to contribute to the economic and social fabric of El Paso, and their success strengthens our border region.Supporting these young people is an investment in a more inclusive and prosperous future. Together, we can ensure these students realize their dreams and give back to the community that believes in them.Carla Cardoza, PresidentLydia Patterson Institute
More: EPISD proposes closing 10 elementary schools amid declining enrollment challenges Closing schools not only optionEPISD's proposal to close schools is necessary and inevitable but it is setting off a lot of community alarms. Closing schools should be one of several options to consider for solving the financial deficit. While doing so, EPISD must be careful not to alienate its constituency before the next bond referendum.
The argument to close underutilized schools is valid but shouldn't be the only option to save taxpayer money. If a school is operating at approximately 30% utilization, then approximately 70% of the school should be shuttered and its workforce reduced, if possible.
Private sector organizations usually reorganize their operations to run as lean and efficiently as possible. EPISD should take that approach and look into eliminating, outsourcing or downsizing certain departments. Inefficiencies must be identified and corrected. There is a department of support services with only two employees, no budget and an undefined area of responsibility. That department shouldn't exist and can be easily eliminated or consolidated with no consequences to the district.
Many school districts outsource other services such as custodial, police and transportation services. Some maintenance and landscaping services can also be outsourced. Some local school districts are already taking this approach. The discussion to start closing schools and outsourcing departments should have started many years ago and its delay is only causing EPISD's financial problem to worsen.
Jesus Delgado
Northeast El Paso
