Every Student Counts: Mission CISD’s Ongoing Dropout Recovery Efforts

Mission Consolidated Independent School District (Mission CISD) is turning challenges into opportunities and demonstrating that every student matters, thanks to the dedication of its Family and Community Engagement (FACE) team.

The district’s dropout recovery initiative begins each August, leading up to the state deadline on the last Friday in September. While outreach continues year-round, the dedicated FACE recovery team intensifies its work during this period.

Mission CISD began the school year with 493 potential leaver students. Today, that number has been reduced to just 87—and the district’s work is far from finished. With two full weeks remaining before the September 26 deadline, Nancy Villarreal, Family and Community Engagement Migrant Coordinator, emphasized the district’s determination and commitment to bringing every remaining student back.

“Our collective efforts are driven by one core belief – our students are worth fighting for,” said Villarreal.

“Their futures matter, and it is this shared conviction that fuels the Dropout Recovery (DOR) team to keep showing up, keep innovating, and keep believing in the power of second chances.”

According to the 2023–2024 Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR), the district’s dropout rate for grades 9–12 was just 0.3% in 2022–2023. For grades 7–8, Mission CISD reported an even lower rate of 0.2%.

At the focus of this initiative, Fidel Garza Jr., Executive Director for Secondary Education, highlighted, “These students are the heart of our Mission CISD community. We know that circumstances can make it difficult to attend school, but we want to remind anyone who left that they are still a part of our family.”

“We have a tremendous team dedicated to this initiative. This team provides the individualized support and encouragement needed to help students find a new path. Our message is simple: you belong here, and we are ready to help you succeed,” said Garza.

Recovery efforts often involve home visits and phone calls to provide families with resources and alternatives. Students unable to return to a traditional schedule may attend Options Academy, where they can recover credits and earn certifications.

“Every student matters, and we want to make sure they have a path to continue their education—whether it’s here with us or through another program that meets their needs,” Villarreal shared.

“I am truly grateful to our Family and Community Engagement Team for the heart, dedication, and countless hours they put into reaching out to our students and families. Let’s finish strong, together!”

Mission CISD is committed to student retention and dropout recovery, ensuring that every child has the chance to succeed, graduate, and pursue a brighter future.