Roadrunner Monthly News
August 2026
Principal's Corner
Dear Parents and Families,
Welcome back! I hope you and your family had a wonderful summer filled with opportunities to relax, recharge, and make lasting memories. As we begin a new school year, I am excited to welcome both our returning families and those who are joining our school community for the first time.
At Western Hills Elementary, we believe that every child deserves to learn in an environment where they feel safe, valued, supported, and inspired to succeed. Together, we will build a strong and supportive community where students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. This partnership between home and school is essential, and we are grateful to have you as part of our team.
Throughout the year, we are committed to inspiring curiosity, empowering students to become confident learners and leaders, and providing the support and opportunities they need to achieve success. Your involvement, encouragement, and partnership make a meaningful difference in your child's educational journey, and we look forward to working alongside you every step of the way.
As we begin this exciting journey together, please know that our doors are open. We encourage you to stay connected, ask questions, and celebrate the many milestones and accomplishments this school year will bring.
Thank you for trusting us with your children. It is a privilege to be part of their educational journey, and we are excited to learn, grow, and celebrate together.
You Are Important. Every student, every family, and every staff member contribute to the strength of our school community. Together, we will inspire one another, empower each other to succeed, and create a school where everyone feels valued, respected, and connected.
We look forward to a wonderful school year!
Warm regards,
Don Belknap
Principal
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
Welcome Back - Western Hills 101
Roadrunner families,
Please take the time to watch the below video. It will cover drop off, pick up, and all the other important Roadrunner information. Thank you.
Transportation
Parents,
For your child to ride the bus, the school MUST have a blue transportation form turned into the office. Please make sure your child's teacher is aware how they will be going home every day.
Student Forms
All student forms are due ASAP!
Yellow student Emergency Pick-Up forms are due! They were given out at Meet the Teacher. If you did not attend Meet the Teacher, your teacher will be sending home a folder. Please return all forms the next day. We can NOT release students unless the pick-up person is on the yellow form.
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
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.

