EPISD, SISD to decide class cancellation for pope’s visit next month
The El Paso and Socorro Independent School Districts are expected to discuss making changes to the school calendar ahead of Pope Francis’ visit to Juarez.
School board meetings are scheduled for both districts Tuesday evening.
EPISD school board members could make a decision on a district-wide closure on February 17 to accommodate the pope’s visit to Juarez.
Board members will also decide if the district will make up the school day on February 15 when EPISD observes Presidents’ Day.
EPISD told ABC-7 late last year student safety is its top priority, especially for schools in close proximity to where Pope Francis will hold a mass.
Bowie High, Guillen Middle and Aoy Elementary schools are are located less than a mile from the former Juarez fairgrounds south of the border.
Hundreds of thousands of people are expected from around the U.S. and the world, which could lead to trespassing on school properties.
Security is also a concern for SISD and board members are also expected to take action at Tuesday night’s meeting.
As a result of the Papal visit, the agenda stated “administration recommends consideration and approval of the proposed modification to the 2015-2016 Student Calendar.”
SISD anticipates a large number of students and staff will be absent February 17.
Ysleta, Canutillo and San Elizario school districts have not announced a decision.
Clint ISD has a board meeting scheduled Thursday, but no item referencing the district’s school calendar is listed on the agenda.
Connie Limon, principal for Las Cruces Catholic Schools, told ABC-7 students who do not attend school on the day of the pope’s visit will be given an ‘excused day off.’
The University of Texas at El Paso announced last week classes are cancelled for February 17. UTEP wants to have enough security available on campus to manage traffic and ensure the public’s safety.
The Sun Bowl will host a celebration Feb. 17 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., tickets are now available for $15.
