EPISD Board of Trustees Election Approaches as Key Vacancy Remains Unfilled

As the registration deadline for the Eagle Pass Independent School District (EPISD) Board of Trustees election draws near, a significant and concerning issue remains unresolved—a key vacancy on the board has yet to be filled. This vacancy was created by the passing of longtime board member Lupita Fuentes earlier this year in April. Despite the importance of this position, Superintendent Samuel Mijares has not submitted the agenda item necessary for the board of trustees to appoint someone to take over the role. With the candidate registration deadline looming on Monday, August 19, 2024, at 5:00 p.m., the community is left questioning the delay. What is Superintendent Mijares waiting for?

The upcoming EPISD election has already attracted significant interest, with eight candidates vying for four critical positions on the board. The current members—Jorge Barrera, Glenna Purcell, Christopher Hiller, and Hector Alvarez—have been pillars of the Eagle Pass community for years, guiding the district through numerous challenges. However, this election season brings a wave of new candidates who believe it’s time for fresh ideas and approaches to education in Eagle Pass.

Key Races and Candidates

Hector Alvarez, who has served on the board since 2012 in Position 6, faces a challenge from Jaime Barrera. Alvarez has played a pivotal role in key decisions over the past decade, but Barrera is positioning himself as a fresh alternative, offering voters a different perspective on the direction the district should take.

In Position 2, incumbent Christopher Hiller, who has been on the board since 2016, is up against Manuel D. Hernandez. Hiller has focused on improving educational outcomes and securing necessary funding for the district, but Hernandez, who registered his candidacy just days before the deadline, is campaigning on a platform of increased transparency and accountability, suggesting that the board needs a new approach.

The race for Position 7 is perhaps the most competitive, with three candidates already in the running. Glenna Purcell, who has been on the board since 2010, is facing Albert Daniel and Tom González. While Purcell’s long experience and deep community ties are her strengths, Daniel and González are advocating for modernization and innovation in the district, arguing that new approaches are needed to meet the evolving needs of students and teachers.

Meanwhile, Jorge Barrera, the President of the EPISD Board, is seeking re-election for Position 1. Barrera, who has served on the board since 2016, has been a steady leader during his tenure. So far, no one has registered to run against him, making his re-election likely. However, with the registration deadline approaching, there is still time for a challenger to step forward.

The Unresolved Vacancy

While the election is drawing significant attention, the unresolved vacancy left by Lupita Fuentes remains a critical issue. Superintendent Mijares’s decision not to submit an agenda item for the board to appoint a replacement has led to growing speculation and concern. Some community members are questioning whether Mijares is trying to influence the composition of the board by delaying the appointment. The timing of this decision—or the lack thereof—is particularly troubling given the upcoming election.

This delay has sparked discussions about the balance of power within the school district. Some believe that by not moving forward with the appointment, Mijares may be attempting to maintain control over the board of trustees during an election that could significantly alter the district’s leadership. The fact that this seat remains unfilled only adds to the complexity of this election season.

Community Concerns and Election Outlook

As the August 19 registration deadline approaches, voters in Eagle Pass are preparing to make important decisions that will shape the future of their schools. The experience and collaboration of the current board members have undoubtedly played a role in guiding the district through past challenges. However, the new candidates and the unresolved issue of the vacant seat have created a sense of urgency and anticipation around this election.

The community is watching closely to see who will step up in the final days of the registration period and how the unresolved vacancy will impact the election. The candidates’ campaigns, debates, and community engagement in these final days will provide voters with the information they need to make informed choices that will shape the educational landscape of Eagle Pass for years to come.