Roadrunner Monthly News
May 2026
Principal's Corner
Dear Families,
It is hard to believe we are already in the final stretch of the school year! May is always one of the busiest and most exciting months on campus as we celebrate accomplishments, create lasting memories, and prepare for summer.
This year has been filled with growth, learning, challenges, and so many moments of pride. Our students have worked incredibly hard, and we are thankful for the continued support from our families and community. Together, we have made this school year a success.
As we wrap up the year, please continue encouraging your child to:
- Attend school every day and arrive on time
- Finish strong academically
- Show kindness and respect to others
- Participate in upcoming end-of-year activities
We have many exciting events coming up this month including celebrations, awards, field trips, and end-of-year activities. Please be sure to check all school communication platforms regularly for updates and reminders.
We also want to thank our amazing teachers and staff for their dedication to our students every single day. Their hard work and commitment make a difference in the lives of children.
To our families — thank you for your partnership, encouragement, and support throughout the year. We are proud of all that our students have accomplished and look forward to finishing the year strong together!
Wishing everyone a safe, fun, and successful end to the school year and a wonderful summer ahead.
With appreciation,
Don Belknap, Principal
Western Hills Elementary
915-236-3850
🌞 Finish Strong, Stay Positive, and Make Every Day Count! 🌞
May Calendar
June Calendar
Attendance Information
How to Contact Attendance Clerk
Please email the following to our attendance clerk:
- Doctor's notes, dentist's notes, appointment slips, passport appointment paperwork, funeral announcements
- We will no longer take phone calls for verified absences.
- Email: westernhills_notes@episd.org
Registration Progress
🚨 DON’T WAIT—REGISTER TODAY! 🚨
Online registration for the 2026–2027 school year is OPEN, and we need you to do it as soon as possible to ensure staffing for next year.
Avoid the last-minute rush, long lines, and delays. Get your student fully registered today by:
✔️ Completing online registration
✔️ Uploading ALL required documents
✔️ Submitting a current utility bill
🎉 BONUS: Students who are FULLY registered (with all documents submitted) will receive an exclusive Western Hills car decal!
Let’s start the school year strong—secure your child’s spot and skip the stress.
💻 Register today. Don’t delay. We’re ready for YOU!
67.5% Registered.... We are so close to our 2nd goal
Our Principal and AP have officially accepted the challenge… 👀
If we reach 75% student registration by Friday, May 15, they will battle it out in an EPIC 🏃♂️💨 SUMO SUIT RACE! 🤣
https://canva.link/bqv0nrmnldammkz
Who do YOU think will win?
🏆 Principal or 🏆 AP?
Parents, help us get there by completing your child’s registration as soon as possible so we can make this happen! Every registration gets us one step closer to the funniest race of the year! 🎉 ✅ Register now ✅ Help your child’s class ✅ Unlock the SUMO SHOWDOWN!
Roadrunners in Action
Film Festival Results!
K-2 Animation
1st place- Alien encounter
https://youtu.be/AWmsEkiHFwM?si=XwROVgI8n-5DwiFp
2nd place- A Bad Day
https://youtu.be/RABm_1P62O4?si=gc4SeDxlMGqIKF8t
3-5 Drama
1st place -Main Character (Once Removed)
https://youtu.be/7cBirFJsRbA?si=WAHF-LEfUQOV1OrJ
K-2 Educational
It's All Right!
https://youtu.be/CXkmsn1o5Mc?si=Z_I_oBTGyacuVLUe
My Puppy
https://youtu.be/SLur_WcOKwI?si=ED8G7qMbNpnJ_pBp
3-5 Educational
2nd place- Friends Across the Ocean
https://youtu.be/1davqPXgNQ0?si=hOvi4oA5MHKP3yXQ
The Harmony Between Us
Mother's Day Breakfast
Teacher Appreciation
Thank you!
Upcomng Appreciation Days!
Speech Pathologist Appreciation Day May 18
Important Links
Parent Portal
VIPS Background check
Western Hills Website
Roadrunner PTA
Whether a parent, family member, educator, or community member, your PTA membership will impact the lives of millions of Texas children. Thank you for joining us in ensuring every child has a representative voice.https://www.joinpta.org/
Important Contacts
Don Belknap, Principal - drbelkna@episd.org
Danielle Coppinger, Asst. Principal - drcoppin@episd.org
Raquel Hernandez, counselor - rherna11@episd.org
Janet Chaparro, counselor- jmchapar@episd.org
Pam Newby, nurse - panewby@episd.org
Lisa Guzman, secretary - ljguzman@episd.org
Heather Dunscomb, PEIMS clerk - hdunscom@episd.org
Judith Ramirez, LPAC- jramire2@episd.org
Roadrunner Mission & Vision Statement
School Mission:
Students will have the opportunity to participate in sustainability projects relevant to our desert region through hands-on environmental learning experiences.
School Vision:
To deliver exceptional education, empowering students to reach their potential.

