South Elementary earns ‘High Reliability School’ certification

MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – Midland ISD recently announced South Elementary has earned “Level 1” certification as a “High Reliability School” from Marzano Resources. The district said this marks a major accomplishment in its mission to foster a safe, supportive, and effective learning environment for all students.

“At first, we faced resistance,” Principal Rodriguez explained. “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.”

MISD said the milestone is the result of the efforts of the entire school community, including teachers, administrators, students, and parents, who worked together to align resources, refine processes, and continually monitor progress. Principal Cynthia Rodriguez, and Assistant Principal Christina Tynes, were vital to watching, learning, and listening to the needs of the school, shaping a new direction, and overcoming initial reluctance.

“We are committed to putting the right people in the right places and focusing on the right work at the right time,” said Principal 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.”

MISD said the leadership team is now looking to move into Levels two and three by 2026, while maintaining the core standards that earned them Level one certification.

“We have been able to capture both the hearts and minds of our teachers and students, focusing on clear goals, safety, and emotional well-being,” said Counselor Carina Thomas. “As a result, the entire community—parents included—has noticed the transformation in our school’s culture.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin.