Eagle Pass ISD Recognized as Texas Way District of Distinction
By Jose G. Landa, Copyright 2026 Eagle Pass Business Journal, Inc.
Eagle Pass Independent School District was recognized as a Texas Way District of Distinction during the EPISD Board of Trustees meeting held Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
Superintendent Samuel Mijares congratulated the district’s student-athletes, coaches, administrators and trustees for earning the statewide recognition, which honors athletic programs that demonstrate a strong commitment to sportsmanship, character development, leadership and community involvement.
The Texas Way is a statewide initiative developed through a partnership among the Texas High School Coaches Association, the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association and 2Words Character Development.
The program seeks to improve sportsmanship and reduce ejections at University Interscholastic League athletic events while strengthening relationships among athletes, coaches, officials, families and fans.
Its three central principles are respect for others, control of self and maintaining the spirit of competition without sacrificing personal integrity.
Districts must meet several standards to earn the distinction.
These include maintaining or reducing athletic ejections, completing community service projects, establishing an intentional character-development plan and ensuring strong participation by head coaches and athletic coordinators in The Texas Way curriculum.
District officials credited EPISD Athletic Director Eric Villaseñor for his leadership and dedication to the district’s student-athletes, coaches and athletic programs.
The district also recognized its Central Office administration and EPISD Board of Trustees for continuing to support opportunities that help students succeed both on and off the playing field.
Special recognition was extended to the head coaches and athletic programs at C.C. Winn High School for their daily work representing their school and community.
District officials said their dedication to building successful programs and developing student-athletes reflects the Maverick Pride found throughout the campus.
The award is not based solely on victories, championships or athletic performance. It recognizes how a district’s athletes, coaches and supporters conduct themselves during competition and how athletic programs contribute to the development of responsible young leaders.
EPISD officials said the honor reflects the collective efforts of the entire district and its continued commitment to excellence, sportsmanship, character and community throughout its athletic programs.
