Committed to Serve

Dear Canutillo Community,

In Canutillo ISD, our greatest strength has never been found in buildings, programs or equipment — it has always been our people. This community thrives because dedicated employees choose to give their time, talent and heart to our students every single day. Their work is often quiet, rarely publicized and sometimes unseen, but it is always essential.

This month, we come together to celebrate several extraordinary individuals whose years of service have helped shape the Canutillo experience for generations. Their collective impact as auxiliary employees reminds us of what the Canutillo spirit truly looks like.

From our Maintenance Department, we honor three brothers whose commitment to this district spans an incredible 68 years combined, Simón Sapien, Ramón Sapien and Enrique Sapien. Their steady hands, tireless work ethic and deep pride in their craft have kept our schools safe, functional and welcoming. Their service represents the very foundation on which our students and staff rely every day.

We also celebrate the retirement of Sonia Calvillo, who has dedicated 24 years to strengthening our Career and Technical Education programs. Her passion for opening doors of opportunity for students has helped countless young people discover their interests, develop their skills and pursue their futures with confidence. Sonia’s legacy will continue to live on in every student who found their path because she believed in them.

Additionally, we recognize Sergio Rizo, who retires after an extraordinary 35 years of service with our Food Services team. His behind-the-scenes expertise and unwavering reliability ensured that Canutillo students received safe, healthy meals day after day, year after year. Sergio’s commitment reflects the core values that define our district,  humility, hard work and service to others.

Each of these long serving employees, in their own unique way, has contributed to the strength, stability and heart of Canutillo ISD. They represent the many unsung heroes across our district such as bus drivers, aides, clerks, custodians, technicians and so many others, who do not seek recognition but whose professionalism keeps our schools thriving.

As interim superintendent, I am deeply grateful for their dedication and for the countless ways they have lifted up our students, supported our staff and enriched our community. Their retirements mark the closing of remarkable chapters, but their influence will continue to resonate throughout Canutillo for years to come.

To Simón, Ramón, Enrique, Sonia and Sergio, thank you. Thank you for your decades of devotion to Canutillo ISD. Thank you for giving your skills, your energy and your heart to our students. And thank you for showing us what it truly means to serve with purpose and pride.

On behalf of the entire district, we celebrate you and we wish you the very best in your well-earned retirements. You will always be part of the Canutillo family, and your contributions will continue to make this district a better place every single day.

Dr. Jesica Arellano
Interim Superintendent
Canutillo Independent School District