The Laredo ISD Bilingual/English as a Second Language (ESL) Program, and its educators, have once again secured the prestigious title of "School District of the Year" for 2023-2024. The recognition was announced at the 52nd Annual Texas Association for Bilingual Education (TABE) Conference, held in Round Rock, Texas, during the Summit K12 “Summies” Celebration. This marks the second consecutive year that Laredo ISD has earned this top honor, highlighting the district's commitment to supporting its Emergent Bilingual students.
“It fills me with joy and admiration to bring home these accomplishments for our district, our campuses, and our Emergent Bilingual students,” said Dr. Carmen A. Pompa, Director of Laredo ISD’s Bilingual/ESL Department. “Summit K12 is the program we implement district-wide for our Emergent Bilingual population, and it effectively provides the support needed to develop the English language across the four domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing.”
Laredo ISD received accolades for the exemplary usage and implementation of the Summit K12 program, as well as for its TELPAS (Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System) English Learner Proficiency status for the 2023-2024 academic year. Competing against other X-Large size districts such as San Antonio ISD, Ysleta ISD, Edinburg CISD, Spring ISD, Conroe ISD, Galena Park ISD, and Richardson ISD, Laredo ISD achieved the following recognitions:
District of the Year (X-Large Size District):
First Place Statewide Winner – Laredo ISD
High School Educator of the Year:
Second Place Statewide – Maritza Gomez, Nixon High School
Elementary Campus of the Year:
Second Place Statewide – Don Jose Gallego Elementary
Administrator of the Year for Exceptional Leadership and Innovation:
First Place Statewide Winner – Dr. Carmen A. Pompa
Dr. Pompa expressed her gratitude for being named "Administrator of the Year," stating, "While I was truly surprised to receive this recognition, I am deeply humbled and incredibly grateful. It means a lot to be acknowledged at the state level in this way."
The Laredo ISD Bilingual/ESL Department serves nearly 11,000 Emergent Bilingual students, representing 57% of the district's population. Under Dr. Pompa’s leadership, the department—which includes six Instructional Strategists, one Bilingual Coordinator, one LPAC (Language Proficiency Assessment Committee) Supervisor, and two administrative assistants—remains dedicated to enhancing the academic achievement of its students.
“These recognitions reflect the dedication our team has in providing the best support for our bilingual population,” Dr. Pompa added. “Our TELPAS and STAAR scores are a testament to the success we are achieving.”
Laredo ISD’s repeated recognition at the state level highlights its unwavering commitment to educational excellence and the success of Emergent Bilingual students. The district remains focused on fostering an inclusive learning environment that empowers students to reach their full potential. As Laredo ISD celebrates these achievements, it continues to strive for even greater accomplishments, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to thrive academically and beyond.
