Three Canutillo ISD elementary schools earn prestigious statewide leadership award for student-led service initiatives

In a shining example of student empowerment and community impact, Bill Childress Elementary School, Deanna Davenport Elementary School and Jose Damian Elementary School have been named recipients of the 2024-2025 Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) Student Leadership Award. 

This honor, awarded to only the most exceptional PK-8 student leadership teams across Texas, celebrates the young leaders whose service-driven projects are making a lasting difference in their schools and communities.

“This award is a testament to the character and commitment of our students and educators,” said Canutillo ISD Superintendent Dr. Pedro Galaviz. “It shows what happens when we give students the tools and trust to lead. They don’t just rise to the occasion, they exceed all expectations.”

Established in 2018, the TEPSA Student Leadership Award honors student groups that demonstrate excellence in leadership, service, and civic engagement. Each of the recognized Canutillo ISD schools exceeded the criteria, showcasing their impact through a range of initiatives including:

• Leading food and toy drives to support families in need
• Visiting senior centers to uplift the elderly
• Organizing celebrations to honor local veterans
• Promoting teacher appreciation across campuses
• Championing school improvement projects that benefit the entire learning environment

“Student-led initiatives not only enhance the educational experience but are crucial for fostering civic engagement among students,” said TEPSA Executive Director Harley Eckhart. “We are proud to recognize these dynamic groups of young leaders who actively participate in their communities and make a positive difference throughout Texas.”

All three Canutillo ISD student leadership teams will be formally recognized at the TEPSA Student Leadership Workshops this fall. These workshops, which have trained more than 40,000 students since 1999, equip young leaders with tools and strategies to implement meaningful change in their schools and beyond.

As TEPSA celebrates a record number of awardees this year, Canutillo ISD stands tall among the honorees—proving that leadership starts early, and that with guidance, encouragement, and vision, students can lead their communities toward a brighter future.

To learn more about the TEPSA Student Leadership Award and student leadership development, visit www.tepsa.org.