Established in 2014 by two El Paso natives, Omar Yanar and Andrew Benitez, El Paso Leadership Academy, a tuition-free college preparatory middle school, welcomes its 5th class of 6th graders August 13. This year is extra special as the school is not only celebrating its 5 year anniversary but is also celebrating a number of achievements. Those include being ranked #1 among all Texas middle schools for Comparative Academic Growth, among the top schools in Texas for Closing Performance Gaps, and having scholars achieve postsecondary readiness based on the 2018 TEA State Accountability Standards.
This marks the second year in a row that EPLA has received academic distinctions from the TEA; four in 2017 and now five in 2018. These include:
- Academic Achievement in Science
- Academic Achievement in Social Studies
- Top 25% Comparative Academic Growth
- Post Secondary Readiness
- Top 25% Comparative Closing the Gaps
For more details visit: https://txschools.org/schools/071810001/overview
EPLA is a public school and 100% open enrollment. That means that any family that resides in El Paso County who wishes to enroll their child at EPLA has the opportunity to do so. Fall classes began August 13 with enrollment continuing through September 1, or until classes reach capacity.
EPLA is a small, safe and bully-free school with an enrollment averaging 200 students. Small class sizes support focused, guided instruction and a sense of community among students. In the 2017-2018 school year, the average student was able to achieve more than 2 years of growth in their math and reading levels. These advances support EPLA’s mission as a college preparatory middle school to ensure their graduates are ready for high school and beyond.
On top of its rigorous academic curriculum, all students engage in weekly character and leadership development classes. The school’s goal is to inspire and motivate their students to become engaged leaders in their community.
For more information please visit their website (www.epleadershipacademy.org/