El Paso High School is more than just a place where students go to get an education — it's a cornerstone of the community, a living piece of history, and a school that continues to shape lives in meaningful ways. Located in the heart of El Paso, Texas, it’s the oldest continuously operating high school in the city. Whether you're a parent, student, alumni, or just curious about what makes El Paso High stand out, this guide is for you.

The school has a rich past that includes name changes, community protests, and even a surprising political defeat back in 1923. It’s a place where tradition meets modern education, and where students are not only taught but supported through programs like Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).

Today, El Paso High is part of the El Paso Independent School District and holds a strong performance rating with multiple academic distinctions. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes this school special, from its history to its current standing and what it offers students today.

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Table of Contents

• A Walk Through Time: The History of El Paso High School
• Academics and Performance: What You Need to Know
• School Culture and Community Involvement
• Frequently Asked Questions About El Paso High School

A Walk Through Time: The History of El Paso High School

El Paso High School has been around since the late 1800s, making it the oldest high school still in operation in El Paso, Texas. That’s a pretty big deal when you think about how much the city has grown and changed over the decades. The school has seen its fair share of ups and downs, including a brief name change in the past.

In the early 1900s, it was briefly known as Sam Houston High School, but that didn’t last long. After just one year, the community pushed back — hard. People really cared about the school’s identity, and thanks to a strong protest from the local community, the name was changed back to El Paso High.

Another interesting moment in the school’s history happened in February 1923, when the Ku Klux Klan tried to gain local influence but was defeated in the polls. That’s a powerful reminder of how the people of El Paso have always stood up for what’s right, even back in those days.

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Academics and Performance: What You Need to Know

When it comes to academics, El Paso High School holds its own. It’s ranked #2,356 nationally, which might not sound like a huge number, but considering there are thousands of high schools across the country, that’s nothing to sneeze at. The school is part of the El Paso Independent School District and serves students in the El Paso area.

According to available data, around 57.2% of students are considered at risk — a term often used to describe students who might be facing challenges like poverty, language barriers, or other factors that could affect their learning. But even with those challenges, El Paso High has managed to maintain a solid 4-star performance rating and has earned seven academic distinctions.

The school uses programs like PBIS to support students and encourage positive behavior, which helps create a more focused and productive learning environment. If you're thinking about enrolling or just want to know what kind of education your student might get, it’s worth checking out what the school offers academically.

Here’s a quick look at some of the academic highlights:

• Ranked #2,356 nationally
• 4-star performance rating
• 7 academic distinctions
• Part of the El Paso Independent School District
• Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program in place

For more details on academic programs and student performance, you can learn more about El Paso High School programs on our site.

School Culture and Community Involvement

What makes a school truly great isn’t just its academics — it’s the people, the culture, and how connected everyone feels. El Paso High School has a long history of community involvement and strong school spirit. From sports to clubs to community events, students and families are encouraged to be part of the school’s ongoing story.

Back in the 1920s, the community showed just how much they valued the school by fighting to keep its original name. That same passion and pride still lives on today. Whether it’s through student government, sports teams, or after-school programs, there’s a sense of belonging that makes El Paso High more than just a building.

The school also supports a diverse student population, which is pretty much a given considering El Paso’s location and demographics. That diversity helps create a more inclusive environment, where students can learn from each other and grow together.

Parents and students alike often mention the welcoming atmosphere and the way teachers and staff get to know students on a personal level. It’s not just about grades — it’s about helping each student find their own path.

If you're interested in learning more about how the school supports students and families, you can explore more on our page about El Paso High School community programs.

Frequently Asked Questions About El Paso High School

Is El Paso High School a good school?

Yes, El Paso High is considered a high-quality public school with a strong academic record and a positive school culture. It has a 4-star performance rating and has received multiple academic distinctions.

What programs does El Paso High School offer?

The school offers a variety of academic programs and supports, including the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) system. It also provides extracurricular activities, sports teams, and student organizations.

What is the history of El Paso High School?

El Paso High School is the oldest high school in El Paso, Texas. It was briefly renamed Sam Houston High School but was changed back after a community-led protest. The school has a long and proud history, including standing up to the KKK in a local election back in 1923.