CISD to allow NWECHS students to participate in UIL sports, arts teams at CHS

Canutillo Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Josue Borrego announced this week that the district will start allowing students enrolled at Northwest Early College High School to participate in select University Interscholastic League-aligned extracurricular activities at Canutillo High School.

Beginning in the 2026-27 school year, Northwest Early College students who meet eligibility requirements will be allowed to compete in athletic and fine arts programs at Canutillo High while remaining enrolled at their campus. District leaders say the change is designed to expand opportunities for students seeking a more comprehensive high school experience.

“We’ve listened to our students and families and we’re responding by opening the door to more opportunities,” Borrego said. “This change strengthens our programs and gives Northwest students the chance to compete, perform and grow while staying on their academic path. It also gives Canutillo High School a larger pool of talent to complement the already-strong programs that continue to excel during UIL competition.”

Under the new guidelines, eligible students may participate in:

• All UIL sports for boys and girls, including cheerleading
• All music programs, including band, orchestra, choir, mariachi, guitar and piano
• All performing arts programs, including dance, theater and winter guard

CISD has launched an interest form for parents who are considering enrollment at NWECHS and UIL participation at CHS. The form can be found here. 

The policy does not apply to UIL activities already offered at Northwest Early College. Those programs include academic competitions such as speech and debate, robotics, journalism, business, as well as UIL visual arts competitions.

“Northwest’s strong academic focus remains unchanged,” Northwest Early College Principal Frank Clark said. “Students who choose to participate in UIL programs at Canutillo High will still be expected to meet all academic expectations and eligibility standards set by both the state and the district.”

The district is developing an interest form for students and families who want to participate in qualifying UIL programs. The form will be available on the District’s website and shared on social media. More information will be shared in the coming weeks.

Canutillo ISD is a District of Innovation recently named Best Small School District in Texas. Enrollment for the 2026-27 school year is now open. Students from across El Paso County may attend Canutillo ISD schools tuition-free.

To register online or submit a transfer request, visit www.canutillo-isd.org/registration.