South Elementary School has been recognized by an organization dedicated to helping K–12 educators advance student achievement.
According to a Midland Independent School District (ISD) news release, the school has achieved level one certification as a High Reliability School (HRS) from Marzano Resources. This recognition comes as a result of implementing various effective initiatives that have cultivated a dynamic learning environment for students. The evaluation for certification considered several factors, including day-to-day operations, school safety, community collaboration, and the improvement of student behavior.
"At first, we faced resistance," Principal Cynthia Rodriguez said. "But we saw huge effects on our students, staff, and parents once we started focusing on creating consistent procedures and setting the culture ourselves, rather than letting it be set for us. It became clear that we were moving the school in the right direction."
Rodriguez and Assistant Principal Christina Tynes played pivotal roles in helping faculty and students embrace continuous school improvement. The transition to a positive and effective school culture is now showcased in its level one certification, reflecting the school's success in addressing foundational elements to progress towards efficiency and consistency. By 2026, the school aims to achieve levels two and three certifications while maintaining standards that support its current status.
"We are committed to putting the right people in the right places and focusing on the right work at the right time," added Rodriguez, referencing the school's leadership motto of Putting Aces in Their Places. "Our staff has fully embraced this collaborative approach, and we have already seen how it has strengthened both our teaching and our relationships with the community."