Canutillo High, Damian students honored as Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Year

Two Canutillo ISD students were recognized by Big Brothers Big Sisters of El Paso as the program’s Big Brother and Little Brother of the Year for embracing the spirit of mentorship and helping foster a working relationship between high-school students and their younger elementary school “siblings.” 

Canutillo High School senior Ian Garcia and his mentee, Luis Puerta from Damian Elementary School, were honored during a special ceremony in Downtown El Paso last Thursday.

Garcia, who is enrolled in the Early Learning Pathway for future educators, has been mentoring Puerta for the past year through a partnership between Big Brothers Big Sisters and Canutillo ISD. The award celebrates not only the strength of their relationship but also the positive impact they’ve had on each other’s lives.

“This is the second year that Big Brothers Big Sisters has recognized students from Canutillo’s Early Learning Pathway, and it speaks volumes about our students’ and teachers’ dedication to making a difference,” said Crystal Rodriguez, Career & Technical Education teacher at Canutillo High School. “Ian and Luis have truly impacted each other’s lives, and their connection will last long after this school year ends.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of El Paso supports one-to-one mentoring relationships that empower young people to reach their full potential.

At Canutillo ISD, the program is integrated into the district’s teacher preparation track, where high school students mentor elementary students on a weekly basis.

Organizers say these weekly visits have led to strong, lasting bonds and friendships between Bigs and Littles, creating a foundation of trust, guidance and mutual growth.