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Recent News

School Board Recognizes Student Achievement

At a Regular School Board Meeting held November 18, the Board of Trustees recognized the Mighty Hawk Band, Cross Country state qualifiers Gabe Garcia and Angela Martínez, and ZHS Hawk Tennis Team for their successful seasons!

FSA ID Parent Meeting at ZHS

Representatives from Laredo College helped seniors with college applications, setting up FSA ID accounts, and creating Parchment accounts for transcript requests.

Spooky Family Literacy Night a Fantastic Success!

What a spooktacular night! Our Spooky Family Literacy Night was a fantastic success. Students were enchanted as teachers brewed up a witches’ brew of amazing books that ignited their imaginations. Dressed in their Halloween costumes, the students had a wonderful time listening to and reading stories with their parents while enjoying an enchanted treat. It was truly a night filled with fun and spooky creativity! 🎃👻📚🧙‍♀️🧹

Student winners, whose families attended the Thursday, September 26, 2024 ZCISD FACE Meeting, had an opportunity to win prizes!

The 1st pictures shows Gloria Vela, ZCISD FACE Liaison; Delayla D. Valadez, FARVES 2nd grader and Julissa Orta, ZCISD Migrant/NGS Secretary. Delayla won some iPods for having her family attend the FACE Meeting. The 2nd pictures shows Gloria Vela, ZCISD FACE Liaison and Jesus Gonzalez, ZMS 8th grader, displaying his iPods, as well. The 3rd picture shows, Julissa Orta, ZCISD Migrant/NGS Secretary, presenting Jesus with his new iPods. Congratulations Jesus and Delayla!

Child Nutrition Department TASTE TESTING EVENTS

The ZCISD Child Nutrition Department had an incredible time hosting taste testing events at Zapata High School and Zapata Middle School! We would like to thank the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension for their collaboration and to their Youth Ambassadors for providing valuable support in making these events a success. A special thank you to the Zapata High School Culinary Arts class and the Advocates of Zapata Middle School for helping sample some delicious items!
Taste Testing events help introduce students to new, nutritious foods in a fun and interactive way, promoting healthier eating habit

Thank You ZCISD Principals!

ZCISD Board of Trustees celebrated National Principal Appreciation Month at tonight’s regular school board meeting. Thank you awesome principals! 🎉🌟🎉

Events

Our Gallery

Villarreal Elementary would like to thank the Zapata High School students from different organizations that donated a turkey to be raffled to our families.

#gohawksgo

Congratulations to the the Zapata High School JROTC Hawk Battalion. They competed Saturday, November 17th. The competition was held at Kingsville High School’s Skills Drill Meet. The Armed Drill team placed 2nd place in Regulation and Exhibition. The Unarmed Team placed 2nd in Exhibition.
TAMIU Preview Day
TAMIU Preview Day where ZHS seniors toured the campus, and attended informational sessions on admissions, scholarships,  housing and enjoyed lunch at the Dusty Diner. 

Good luck to the mighty Hawks tomorrow at their playoff game as they take on the Port Lavaca Calhoun Sandcrabs. We are cheering you on and wishing you the very best! Go Hawks Go!!

Zapata Middle School students and parents enjoying a festive Thanksgiving meal together. 

A UTSA recruiter met with ZHS seniors to offer support with college applications and scholarship opportunities. Thank you for helping our students prepare for their futures!
"Honoring Our Heroes"  Veterans Day Celebratrion 2024

Parents, Students and Staff enjoying the Tailgate! Go Hawks Go!

On behalf of everyone at the Anselmo Trevino Jr. Life Skills Center, thank you Ronnie and Gale Browning for the generous gift of the 6ft Christmas tree and decorations

Kinder students at North Elementary participated in a Mock Election on honor of Election Day!  #GREATNESS
Red Ribbon Week "Pledge to be Drug Free"

Congratulations to Border Patrol Youth of the Month recipients! 

Dalina Garcia - September Youth of the Month recipient and Roberto Garcia-October Youth of the Month recipient.   #EmpoweringTomorrowsLeaders #HawkPride

Happy National Oatmeal Day! Today, our Child Nutrition Department is serving warm delicious oatmeal as an option to kick off the morning
ZNE celebrates the 50th day of school with a record hop. Students wore 50’s attire and their favorite team shirt to “team up against drugs”.
Homecoming festivities a journey filled with unforgettable moments and Hawk Pride!

Students and parents attended a very important presentation on transitional and guidance services for or students at the Anselmo Trevino Life Skills Center.  Leslie Perez, Counselor with the Texas Workforce Solutions presented. THANK YOU to everyone that attended and helped make this event a SUCCESS!

Zapata Middle School kicked off Red Ribbon Week on October 23, 2024. Red ribbon week is celebrated to raise awareness to the students about drug and violence prevention. The students had fun signing a drug-free pledge and getting tattoos. 

It's all about Safety!🚌

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School students celebrate National Bus Safety Week. Students learned the bus rules, the importance of seat belts, and how to safely get off the bus in case of an emergency.

THANK YOU  for your support!
Zapata South Elementary would like to thank all parents, students and community for making McTeacher night a huge success.

The rising sun signifies a new day filled with opportunities as the Zapata FFA officers set off on their journey to the 97th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, where fresh possibilities await. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to parents, sponsors, donors, and ZCISD for enabling this trip and empowering the future leaders of our community and our nation.

Superintendent Student Advisory met with Dr. Trevino today. Students engaged in a ‘spaghetti and marshmallow’ activity and a discussion on the ZCISD Leadreship Definition Categories.

 Drug Free Presentation to our Villarreal Elementary students on the history, the importance and the effects of living a Drug Free life. The students enjoyed and participated in this event.

Head Football Coach David Porras, Jr., signing the First Division UIL Trophy that the Mighty Hawk Band earned on Saturday, October 19th in Calallen, Tx. 

ZNE students were excited to participate in the Hawk Taste Testing Event. 
They had the opportunity to sample and provide feedback on potential menu options.

ZHS stood together to promote kindness, inclusion, and acceptance for all. Our students, faculty, and staff showed their support by wearing orange, a symbol of unity and a reminder that together, we can put an end to bullying. #UnityDay2024 

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School participated in ZCISD Elementary Cross Country Meet.

Zapata County Firefighters were on 🔥FIRE🔥at South Elementary as we celebrated Fire Prevention Week. Thank you for teaching our students the importance of fire safety!
Z.S.E. PTO treated our sweet teachers to delicious cupcakes for World Teacher Day! Thank you for your endless dedication to our students. You are greatly appreciated. 
💛 Embrace differences, 💙 Celebrate uniqueness. Happy World Down Syndrome Awareness Month!
ZNE wears camo to show their support for Attendance Awareness!
ZCISD Child Nutrition Department supports the Texas agriculture and nutrition education during  Farm Fresh Challenge.

Great job to the Ag Mechanics classes at ZHS, led by Mr. Eric Gonzalez and Mr. Ferny Rodriguez, for their focus on developing welding skills.

Congratulations to the Zapata High School Hawk Tennis Team!

31-4A Team Tennis District Champions!!

Students are encouraged to wear yellow and blue in support of Downs Syndrome Awareness Month!
UT Austin and UTRGV recruiters offered valuable college information to ZHS seniors.

Zapata South Elementary celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month by having their annual "Probaditas." Students in the classrooms enjoyed a fun afternoon tasting traditional Mexican foods and desserts.

ZSE Folklorico Dance Team. We would like to thank all the parents that made "Probaditas" a great success for our students to enjoy.

Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at Mrs. Cristina Pina's class. Students were treated to "probaditas" that allowed them to explore different mexican food.

Criminals Justice students visited the Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Laboratory Division where they received several demonstrations related to crime investigation techniques. 

ZHS Criminal Justice teacher, Marissa Garcia took her students in her Correctional Systems students on a tour to the TAMIU Criminal Justice Dept. where they learned about criminal justice career paths. 

Zapata Middle School had a pep rally this afternoon. Students enjoyed music by our conjunto group and participated in a grito contest. Good luck tonight Merlins!

Congratulations to our Lady Hawks JV light, JV dark, and Varsity volleyball teams. They all came through with victories over La Grulla! Your hard work and dedication truly paid off. Keep up the great teamwork and momentum!! 🏐🦅

Friday, September 13, 2024 at HAWK STADIUM
Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School students wore GOLD to support Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. 💛

"Love is a gift that one generation can leave to another."

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School celebrated Grandparents Day on September 6.

ZHS JROTC, under the direction of Sergeant Abel Mireles, held a heartfelt ceremony to commemorate the events of 9/11.

Z.S.E. students commemorated this day in history with a morning greeting by our brave Law Enforcement. Waves of red♥️, white🤍, and blue💙 filled our school entrance as our students displayed their Patriotic spirits.
Feliz dia de los Abuelos para todos los abuelitos y abuelitas de Villarreal Elementary! 
Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School AR Kickoff!!
Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School AR Kickoff!!

Villarreal Elementary students that attended Reading Night were rewarded with pizza, juice and good conversations about their favorite book.

Lady Hawks Volleyball #hawkpride

Lady Hawk Volleyball
Coffee at High School Now Available Morning and Noon! 
ZMS Dazzlers!
Merlin Pep rally!  Go MERLINS!

Kinder students from Villarreal Elementary searched for the Gingerbread man!! Students searched around the campus before heading out to different locations around our community. Villarreal Elementary would like to thank all businesses who hosted our students.

Mrs. Del Bosque 3rd grade class collaborative learning on Understanding Multiplication. Students worked in groups to develop a deeper understanding of  multiplication by creating, drawing, and writing.

The Hawk Tennis Team lost a tough match to Gregory Portland 10-9. The Hawks battled to the end demonstrating their Hawk Pride!

Hawk Tennis Dominates the Alice Coyotes today 19-0. Great job Tennis Team. 🎾❤️🎾
Z.S.E students were PUMPED to be greeted by Law Enforcement. A " BIG" Thank you to all who participated! Your enthusiasm and energy were a perfect start to our morning! 

VES 3rd grade students - working on a lesson of the themes that occur in an adaptation of “The Wind in the Willows” in their Amplify curriculum.

ZMS 6th grade RLA students participated in an "All About Me" activity!
ZCISD Child Nutrition Program Serving Good Food for Life!

Villarreal Elementary would like to thank the Zapata County Adult Probation Office for their generous donation.

Congratulations to Andrea Esparza for receiving a $300.00 scholarship from the South Texas Tennis Coaches Association. The STTCA recognizes Andrea’s excellence on the Tennis Courts as well as in the classroom. ZHS Tennis wishes you the best of luck at UTRGV.🎾❤️🎾

The ZHS Hawk Cheerleaders completed a 3 day NCA Camp in San Antonio, Texas on July 13th. A big CONGRATS to this exceptional group of girls! It was an experience that promoted team bonding, skill development and Game Day skills. All in all, these girls made tons of unforgettable memories.

Zapata South Elementary Folklorico Dance Team has successfully completed their three-day dance camp ending with a special performance tthat was worth a “grito” or two!

Mia and Faith represented ZHS in a national competition at the Educators Rising National Conference in Washington, D.C. Mia and Faith are members of the Texas Association of Future Teachers. Much appreciation to our teachers/TAFE advisors , Mrs. Norma Chapa and Mrs. Melissa Jackson for training our future teachers and accompanying the students on this educational experience!L-R Mrs. Norma Chapa, Mia Herrera, Faith Guerra, & Mrs. Melissa Jackson

That’s a Wrap 2024 ESY ! Have a safe summer and we will see you in August!
Zapata Hawk and Lady Hawk Basketball Camp day 1 off to a great start! 
Zapata Hawk and Lady Hawk Basketball Camp day 1 off to a great start! 

Zapata Middle School students engaged with Project BLOOM. 

Zapata Middle School students enjoyed three interactive sessions in math, reading, and science hosted by Project BLOOM.

Zapata High School students ready for the

Summer Student Leadership Summit in Laredo.

GT students learned about aquatic animals during the GT Summer Camp at Zapata South Elementary. They worked on a research project based on the animal of their choice and will be attending the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi next week to enhance their knowledge on aquatic animals.🦀🐙🐠🦭🐢

GT Summer Camp at ZSE

To improve their judging skills and in preparation for the new season, Zapata High School FFA students attended a 3 day Livestock Judging Camp at Texas A&M University.  To culminate the camp, a judging contest was held for about 100 participants. Overall camp individual :5th place Ralph Garcia  High Point Individual by species: 2nd High Point- Goat- Derek Garcia 2nd-High Point - Cattle-Ralph Garcia.

Region One held a summer camp for ZCISD 4th and 5th graders attending SummerSchool. The Literacy Camp was a success. Thank you Region One for your support!

Conductor or insulator? Summer school students in Mrs. Laura Martinez’s science class are learning to classify matter by its conductivity.

Zapata High School students completed their first week of summer camp. FIrst week students learned or sharpened their fishing skills. Students were led by Instructor Mr. Juan G. Villarreal and assistant instructor, Mrs. Maria Garcia. Special thanks to Mr. Renato Ramirez, Dr. Roberta Treviño and Mr. Troy Treviño for supporting this initiative by providing access to their ranch pond.

Villarreal Elementary would like to congratulate Mrs. Flor Bannworth’s 1st grade class for publishing their first classroom book, “When Math Saved the Day!”

The Summer Seamless Program is now in full swing! This initiative ensures that kids have access to nutritious meals throughout the summer. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff for their hard work in making these meals available at all nine participating sites. For more details on locations, schedules, and menus, please visit our website.

This year's top AR student at Zapata Middle School is 6th grader Sofia Alaniz. Congratulations, Sofia!

North Elementary Splash Party! Students enjoyed on the moon jumps and cooled off with some pools and waterslides!

Middle School students having fun at  their AR Challenge Slime War. Congratulations students for having completed your AR goals!

Certified Dental Assistants
Congratulations to Ms. West's Health Science Clinicals students for successfully completing their Basic Life Support/BLS with AED Certification. Thank you for your dedication and efforts to help save lives in life- threatening situations.

VES Counselor,  Ms. Sara Flores, held a Mental Awareness Event for her students. where she talked about the importance of taking care of oneself and different ways in which the students can express their emotions in positive ways.

Zapata Middle School students in Mr. J. Gutierrez's seventh grade class crafted and assembled a delightful surprise for their moms on Mother's Day.

 5 de Mayo Celebration at North Elementary
ZNE 5 de Mayo Celebration
In Celebration of School Lunch Hero Day!

Students and Staff at Anselmo Trevino's Life Skills Center honored Principal Nancy Garza with a token of appreciation on Principal Appreciation Day. We are  grateful for your support!

Zapata FFA Livestock Judging Team

 9th place out of 102 teams
Great job!    Congratulations!

Thursday was the State Homesite Contest at Tarleton State University and our Zapata FFA students did an exceptional job in representing ZHS. The team placed 13th out of 61 teams. Team members are Robert Garcia, Caleb Guerra, Sarah Elizondo, and Derick Garcia. Caleb Guerra was tied for 10th place individual out of 234 contestants. Congratulations Coach Sanchez.

Zapata South Elementary students celebrated Earth Day !

Congratulations Lady Hawks!

Lady Hawks 11

La Feria Bi-District vs Alice

Time, Date, Place T.B.D.

Texas State University representative, Ms. Nancy Nerio, visited with Zapata High School seniors to finish up any pending business and incoming seniors to go over the admission process.

Zapata High School would like to recognize all the students who were inducted into the Kika De La Garza National Honor Society. Congratulations to these students for exemplifying Hawk Pride. To our graduating seniors, thank you for the countless hours you gave to our school and community.

Villarreal Elementary School discussed the harming effects smoking has on their body and pledged to Take Down Tobacco by not smoking.

Zapata Middle School students participated in the TAKE DOWN TOBACCO Art Contest. LCDC counselor, Jackie Gutierrez, and students from Say What! Program, presented the winners and provided all participants with certificates. Congratulations!!


Zapata County ISD Young Athletes was held for children ages 3-7 years old on April 12, 2024. The theme this year was "Yee-Haw Partners"

Congratulations to Zapata Middle School 6th grader, Cristaly Leal, for receiving 1st place at the Vocal Competition at “EI COTTON PICKER MARIACHI FESTIVAL” at Robstown High School.

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School students had a very special educational day

watching the solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024.

ZSE students prepared for the viewing of the solar eclipse on 4.8.24 while viewing news media footage as well as a safety video during lunch. Students commemorated this special occasion with a photo op with their peers! There won’t be another total solar eclipse until til 2044!

ZSE 2024 Solar Eclipse

ZCISD teachers diligently work on the development of the framework for the Dual Language Program. The Dual Language Program will be implemented in the 2024-2025 school year for grades pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and 1st grade! It’s very exciting!

ZHS students in Mrs. Joanna Guzman’s Anatomy and Physiology class worked on identifying blood types. Great job, students!

We are most grateful to  Falcon Lake Nursing Home, we thank you for allowing our ZHS Health Science Clinical students the opportunity to serve our local and surrounding community members

Z.N.E. students had an EGG-citing and fun filled day as they enjoyed their Easter festivities!

Zapata Middle School 7th graders enjoying their Easter Egg Hunt.

ZHS Hawks and Lady Hawks Golf swept the house today! Congratulations on your impressive performance at the golf tournament! Your dedication and skill on the course truly paid off. Well done👍🥳🤩


Zapata Middle School has a boost your self-esteem coloring contest. Congratulations to our winners and to all participants.

World Down Syndrome Day! Mrs. Vela’s 3rd grade classroom at ZNE received two books to read on World Down Syndrome Day. Students also received a Down syndrome awareness wristband and sticker to wear in support of individuals with Down syndrome. Everyone belongs!

Zapata Middle School would like to congratulate all our students who participated at the Special Olympics!! 

What a great day to be a Lady Hawk Powerlifter! Our own Kelsey Cooper competed at the THSWPA 4A Large State Powerlifting Meet in Frisco, Tx on Friday. After the dust settled, Kelsey came out with a 4th place medal making her one of the strongest in her weight class of over 80+ girls from all over the state. Her hard work and determination pushed her through to reaching her goals! We are very proud of Kelsey and her accomplishments!!

On Friday March 8th, our Hawk Powerlifters participated in the Region 5 4A Division 2 Regional Competition in Kingsville, Texas.  Freshman Albert Camacho with a qualifying total of 880lbs. Placing 5th overall and medaling in his weight class was Albert Camacho. Boys State Meet will be March 21-23 in Abilene, Texas.

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School celebrated

Read Across America with Dr. Seuss activities February 26 - March 1

ZHS Hawk Cheerleaders held their End of the Season Banquet today. Seniors placed their Uniform Bows in Memory Boxes to mark the occasion. Team enjoyed yard games, an escape room and food at the Hawksnest!!!

On January 18th, ZHS GEARUp students received a certificate for actively completing the “Workforce Readiness101” training at the GEARUp: Reaching the Finish Line Conference at Region One. The students participated in various activities and proudly represented Zapata High School. Thank you to the sponsors, Mrs. Marie Gutierrez and Ms. Maria Elizalde for taking the students to this awesome event!     #puroHawkPride   #GearUpWorks


Zapata North Elementary 1st grade classes presented a Valentine's Day Program for parents. Special thanks to R. Guerra, V. Rivera, Y. Benavides, and M. Mendoza and their students for a great performance.

In celebration of Valentine's Day, the ZCISD CNP staff prepared some sweet healthy treats for the students today. The students enjoyed whole grain cinnamon rolls and fruit cheesecake. Today's lunch is tuna salad with grilled cheese toast and veggie soup.

Happy Valentine's Day from the ZCISD Child Nutrition Staff!

Happy National School Counseling week to our amazing school (ZHS) counselors, Mrs. Karina Cantu, Mrs. Claudia Garza, Mrs. Blanca Gonzalez, Mrs. Yvonne Flores, Mrs. Sandra Cruz, and our LCDC Mrs. Jennifer Lozano. Thank you for all you do for our staff and students. Zapata High School is lucky to have you. 

Thank you to all the senior parents and students that joined us today at Zapata High School for the FAFSA Drive. ZHS had over 130 parents attend. Special thanks to our partners from Laredo College and TAMIU for their continued support. Huge thank you to our ZHS Counselors, Gear Up Coordinator and Administrators for making this initiative a success! #HomeofHawkPride

#HawkNation

Members of Zapata High School and Zapata Middle Mariachi Halcón participated at the TMEA and ATSSB Mariachi All Region this weekend. Congratulations on an amazing Clinic and Concert. 

Thank You Parents for your support! 

ZMS GT Program Parent Information Meeting 

ZMS GT Program Parent Meeting

Zapata High School Seniors attended TAMIU Preview today. Students were greeted by Luis Diaz, TAMIU Recruiter. ZHS seniors toured the university, played at the rec center, and attend information sessions on admissions. Thank you Seniors for representing Zapata High School with Hawk Pride.

ZCISD Parent Learning Summit January 20, 2024

 #EmpoweringTomorrowsLeaders #bepartofthejourney

ZCISD Parent Learning Summit January 20, 2024

Thank you to all behind the scenes staff who made this event a success! 🥳

Attendees were provided a choice of hot breakfast tacos, uncrustables breakfast sandwiches, juice, and coffee along with a gift bag filled with small tokens of appreciation.

Child Nutrition Dept keeping our students stay warm during these cold days!  #staywarm  #zcisdcares

Zapata Middle School staff started off the year with a New Year's celebration at the library. Teachers went over data to help them prepare for the remainder of the year.

Let’s go! Lady Hawks coming back with a win vs. Brownsville Jubilee! LH Basketball is 3-1 in District. 

Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade students enthusiastically participated in the Zapata County ISD Central Office Administration's Winter Wonderland, filling the day with heartwarming caroling.

Villarreal Elementary Kindergarten students went Christmas Caroling in some of the local businesses and district offices.

ZHS Theater presented "Into the Woods"

December 15, 2023

Great Job Students! 🎉

This is the 1st year of the Saguaro 5k Run/ 1.5 Mile Walk event in San Ygnacio, Tx on November 25, 2023. This event brought participants from all over the country making it a huge success.  The Saguaro 5k Run/ 1.5 Walk registration fee were donated to Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School in memory of Cipriana “Laura” Villarreal.
Principal Lauro Garza, students, and staff would like to Thank all donors, participants, and volunteers for this event. Also, a BIG thank you to Estevan Garcia, Leslie Garcia, Ester Sanchez, and Ricky Garza for organizing and making this event possible. Thank you once again for your generous donation we truly appreciate it.

Villarreal Elementary would like to thank the U.S. Border Patrol Zapata Sector for donating Christmas gifts for our students.

You made our children’s Christmas extra special.

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School would like to give a big "THANK YOU" to Z.C.I.S.D. Administration office staff for their beautiful Winter Wonderland experience

Jrs and Srs TSTC College Visit

Zapata Middle School student, Cristaly Leal, competed at the Mariachi Extravaganza vocal competition finals. Congratulations, Cristaly, on a phenomenal performance! 

Congratulations to Zapata High School Mariachi Halcón for an outstanding performance at the 29th Annual Mariachi Extravaganza! Great job, students and directors!

Zapata High School National Honor Society members and Texas Association of Future Educators had the honor of visiting Villarreal Elementary School on Monday, November 27th. Our NHS and TAFE students were mentored by VES teachers as part of the Junior Achievement program and were able to be student teachers for a day. Great job, students and teachers!

#EmpoweringTomorrowsLeaders

Zapata South Elementary Friendship Lunch

In observance of World Kindness Day, ZMS Counselors joined students during lunch to share positive affirmations of Kindness. This years theme is “Be Kind Wherever Possible” so, to help brighten someone’s day, students picked positive affirmation cards and shared them with their friends and teachers.

ZHS participated in the 2023 High School Bowling Special Olympics Tournament on Friday, Nov. 10th. #hawkPride 

"As seasons change, Fall into a good book, and let the beauty of words surround you like the colors of autumn leaves." Zapata North Elementary - "Falling into a Good Book" Reading Night

ZHS teachers hard at work during Professional Development Day!

#HawkPride  # EmpoweringTomorrow'sLeaders 

ZCISD wishes the Best of Luck to the ZHS Lady Hawks Volleyball team as they compete for Area against Floresville. #hawkpride #bestofluck

Zapata South Elementary celebrated Halloween with a parade, a haunted house and lots of learning activities throughout the day.

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School celebrates Halloween. 👻 #Oct31

Zapata North Elementary Pre-K, Kinder, and 1st Grades enjoying their morning, 

dressing up, and Trick-or-Treating through town!

Zapata High School - Class of 2024 Senior Week

Super Heroes vs. Villains

#HawkPride  #ZHS2024SeniorWeek

Huggie the Bear made a big impact in our students at Villarreal Elementary. Students had a presentation on drug awareness during Red Ribbon Week.

The Sheriff’s Department presented to all grade levels in Zapata Middle School for the “Kiki”Camarena drug awareness and the Red Ribbon Week Campaign"

ZNE students "Put a lid on drugs" by wearing caps and hats to school.
HAPPY NATIONAL PUMPKIN DAY 🎃!

Zapata High School counselors continued to teach our students the importance of Red Ribbon Week. Thank you to Zapata County Juvenile Probation and Adult Probation Departments, Zapata County Sheriff’s Office and Texas DPS State Troopers for visiting ZHS. #SayNoToDrugs

#RedRibbonWeek

Kicking off Red Ribbon Week!!

ZCISD  wishes our Cross Country team the best of luck as they travel to Corpus Christi for their Regional meet!

#HawkPride

Zapata Middle School 7th graders took a field trip to the TAMIU Planetarium 🪐

Zapata Middle School 6th graders attended the Drug Awareness Concert in Laredo at the Sames Auto Arena.

In honor of National School Bus Safety Week, students at Zapata South Elementary learned the importance of bus safety during a hands-on lesson with our ZCISD Bus Drivers. Students practiced safety procedures as well as school bus etiquette. Our Staff and students would like to THANK our ZCISD Bus Drivers for all that you do! 💛🚌 💛

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School

Wore Orange on Wednesday for Unity Day! 🤝

Be Kind and Stop Bullying!!!

Zapata High School alumni, Daniel Flores, P.E., Jorge Molina, and Cristina Mendoza-Vela gave a presentation to our seniors on Civil Engineering and TXDOT Conditional Grant Program. Thank you, Mr. Flores, for providing our students with this opportunity.

#HawkPride

U.S. Customs from the Roma POE gifted the students in Ms. Paola Gomez’s class homecoming mums and garters to get them ready for this week’s homecoming festivities. Thank you so much for keeping this annual event going!

#HawkPride

NSLW 2023.. ZCISD is fueling tomorrow’s leaders every day!

Zapata North Elementary students received a presentation for Fire Safety Week. 
Thank you to the Zapata County Fire Department for providing our students with Fire Prevention Awareness.

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School

wears PINK to support Cancer Awareness Month.

Congratulations Hawk Team Tennis! Bi-District Champions! 
Lady Hawks take the WIN against the Lady Tarpons! Congratulations!

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School is Hunting down Attendance! Students and staff wore camo attire to support Attendance Awareness. #attendancematters

Zapata Middle School staff wore camo attire to support attendance awareness.

Book Fair at Zapata North Elementary is going on until October 6th! Thank you to all students and parents who have visited our Book Fair!

Zapata Middle School would like to thank our custodians for everything they do for our staff and students. 

Thank you!

And just like that, our GEARUp Senior Week has come and gone…lifetime memories with the GEARUp Class of 2024!!!

#purohawkpride  #gearupworks

Behind every great school is a caring school custodian!
Happy School Custodians Day!
Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School would like to thank
Ms. Josefa "Lourdes" Gutierrez and Mrs. Ericka Lara for always being their for are students and staff. Thank you for all you do, you are truly amazing!

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School would like to thank the students and parents for celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and joining us in our first PTO. Topics of discussion were "Attendance Matters!", Perfect Attendance, and "A" Honor Roll celebrations while enjoying delicious probaditas. Thank you parents and staff for all your support.

Zapata North Elementary students wear their Hawk Spirit attire to show their support for Attendance Awareness Month.

CTE PD: Empowering tomorrows leaders through Career Technical Education (CTE)

Lady Hawks WIN!!!
Congratulations to our Lady Hawks Varsity and JV teams on their victory against Grulla Lady Gators.
Varsity Lady Hawks are 6-0 in District play. Congratulations, Lady Hawks!
#HawkPride

 ZSE AR kick- off…students and teachers dressed up as their favorite book character. Students Kicked-Off AR reading with a parade and lots of reading!

Zapata Middle School students sporting their favorite jerseys to kick off AR! Students are challenging themselves to read and comprehend by completing their first reading challenge. Good job Merlins!!

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary School went through the election process by voting for their student council officers

VES AR Kickoff!! We are Building readers!

Students had a parade to start off AR and enjoyed story time presented by the principal Mrs. Saldana.

Mrs. Joanna Guzman’s Honors Biology class enjoyed learning about DNA structures.

#EmpoweringTomorrowsLeaders

On Thursday, September 14th, Region One GEARUp, in partnership with the Small Town and Rural Students (STARS) College Network, hosted a Family Admissions Seminar at Laredo College where attendees received information from Case Western Reserve University, Caltech, The University of Chicago, Washington University in St. Louis, USC and Yale holistic admissions and applying. Zapata High School students and parents attained valuable information; this was shared with the GEARUp Coordinator and ZHS counselors on Friday, September 15th.

Arturo L. Benavides Elementary Golden Eagles Cheerleaders joined the ZHS Cheerleaders to cheer for the Mighty Hawks against Roma.

On September 16, 2023, our ZHS JROTC, STUCO, ZHS NHS, ZMS NHS students participated in the National Clean-Up Day, a global movement that is held every year in September. Students worked in groups and picked up trash along Hwy 16. This event helped promote student understanding of life skills such as personal responsibility. We take pride in our environment and gained valuable experience caring for our community. Thank you to sponsors, parents, ZCISD Police Department & Zapata County Sheriff’s Office for your presence. It is greatly appreciated. Together we make a difference! Zapata Hawk Pride!
#NationalCleanUpDay  #TrashTag   #HawkPride  #adoptahighway                 

Zapata Middle School girls & boys in Coach Villarreal's & Coach Alvarez's 6th grade athletics class are having a little fun Friday after a good week of hard work.

ZSE students and staff dressed up as their favorite Superhero for Attendance Awareness Month.

Zapata Middle School representing Attendance Awareness Month. Our beautiful ladies wore a Wonder Woman t-shirt for all the wonders they do for our staff and students.

Villarreal Elementary celebrated National Patriot Day with U.S. Border Patrol Agents and Zapata County Sheriff Office Deputies greeting our students yesterday morning. Agents were then greeted and thanked by the students and staff by having a parade. We would like to thank all law enforcement personnel for their courageous duties and everyday sacrifices to keep our community safe.

Zapata South Elementary Staff and students remember and observe the 22nd Anniversary of 9/11!

Always remembered, Never forgotten

Congratulations ZHS Cross Country girls team! The girls were team Champions.

Zapata Middle School Merlins

Z.S.E staff and students proudly wore maroon today in support of Uvalde paired with their favorite hat in celebration of Attendance Awareness Month.

Zapata North Elementary School shows their support for Uvalde by wearing maroon and Attendance Awareness by wearing their favorite hat!

Villarreal Elementary students and staff show support to Uvalde by wearing Maroon along with their favorite hat for Attendance Awareness Month.

#villarrealpride

"Mini College Fair "presented helpful information to our seniors. Thank you to all who helped make this a wonderful learning opportunity for the Class of 2024.

Team bonding moments are something to cherish and never forget. Lady Hawks “buried the ball” today. They wrote all their negative thoughts on their ball, buried it and left it behind. They finished off the day with an ice cream treat! Wishing our Lady Hawks the best of luck as they face their district opener tomorrow against La Feria! Please go out and support our Lady Hawks! Go Lady Hawks!!

#HawkPride

Zapata High School seniors in Mrs. Marie Gutierrez’s English IV class highly engaged in journal writing.
#EmpoweringTomorrowsLeaders
#HawkPride

Merlins Barbie at the Beach pep rally!

Zapata Middle School students in Ms. L. Castillo's 6th grade RLA class had a fun day at the library. Students learned how to checkout books and how to properly put them back in the fiction and nonfiction sections. They also enjoyed their silent reading time.

Villarreal Elementary

In a Character Education Class conducted by our Counselor Mrs. Flores the students shared "All About Myself" with the class.

Hawks vs Toros.

Hawk Nation conquered, off to the next battle. See you next week in Tiger territory.

2023 ZNE - Gingerbread Man Hunt
2023 ZNE - Gingerbread Man Hunt

ZHS Strutters’ Officers ready for Friday Night Lights!

#HawkPride

Ms. Zapata's Pre- Kinder class at ZSE were reviewing their Locomotive Skills,
while practicing spatial awareness during PE class.

Kindergarten students from Villarreal Elementary were on a mission! Students explored the campus and the community until they found the Gingerbread man!

We would like to thank all the local establishments where the students stopped to look for the Gingerbread man.

The ZCISD Child Nutrition Department celebrated National Eat a Peach Day! The staff prepared fresh peaches in different ways, including some fresh frozen peach cups. Educational information on the health benefits of this delicious fruit was also shared.

Congratulations to the ZHS Tennis Team on their 15-4 victory over the La Feria Lions today. 
The Hawk/Lady Hawk Tennis Team is currently ranked 25th in the State. #HawkPride

Villarreal Elementary students are enjoying learning different band instruments at the new band program

 for students in 4th and 5th grade.

ZHS students presenting the country assigned in their Spanish 2 class with Mrs Wanda Cuellar-Garcia.

✨✨✨Zapata High School First Day of School!! Go Hawks!!! ✨✨✨

It was a successful first day at Z.N.E.S. We’re looking forward to an amazing school year!✏️🍎🤩

It was a successful first day of school at Zapata South Elementary! 🍎✏️

Zapata Middle School is ready to kick off the year with a positive attitude. Thank you parents and students for coming to our 6th grade Meet the Teacher!

Zapata Royalty joins Villarreal Elementary’s Administrators and office staff at the Back to School Bash!

Thank you Villarreal Elementary parents and students for joining us at Meet the Teacher night. It was a success!!

ZNE welcomed Mrs. E. Lopez and Ms. H. Garza for a teacher training to improve student achievement. The presentation entitled "Celebraing Our Culture-Platica" kept teachers engaged.

The Zapata Tennis Team defeated the Laredo Martin Tigers 19-0 yesterday. The Hawks/Lady Hawks are now 3-2 on the season and will play Devine on Friday and Laredo Nixon on Saturday. “Go Hawk Tennis Go”

ZCISD Technology -- Working hard and working late! Setting up student mobile devices to be ready for the first day of school!!! Huge thanks to the team!!! #EmpoweringTomorrowsLeaders One Click At A Time! 😎🙌🎉🌟

Congratulations to Zapata High School teacher, Ms. Selina Mata, for being selected as a Region One Teacher of the Year nominee!

Villarreal Elementary would like to congratulate Region One Teacher of the Year Nominee Roxana Dominguez 🎉

ZHS GEARUp 2024 Seniors are on the Tour of Texas with the Texas A&M Construction Science Academy…representing and making ZHS proud!!!   #PuroHawkPride   #GEARUPworks

GEARUp Class 2024--our Future!

Thank you to our JROTC Colorguard for leading the 2023-2024 School year with a bang. 

 Zapata High School JROTC Color guard at the Miss Falcon Lake Pageant.

Zapata High School Strutter, Perla Garcilazo, made the Miss Kick Dance Company at ADTS competition at dance camp. Congratulations, Perla!!

Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program. 

This year Mrs. Suzette M. Barrera, Director of Federal Programs, sought to bring the Literacy Program to the children that participated in the ZCISD Summer School Program.

Auto Tech Summer Skills Camp

ZHS Summer Skills Camp for students learning automotive maintenance and car wash basics. 

Camp was being taught by Mr. Juan G. Villarreal.

The Zapata County ISD Child Nutrition Summer Staff is ready to begin service on Monday June 5th.

Don't forget to log in @https://www.schoolnutritionandfitness.com/index.php... for more information regarding our Summer Seamless Program.

Zapata Middle School would like to recognize the 8th graders who attended the award ceremony. Thank you so much for joining us, congratulations and good luck in high school!!

ZSE HONORS 5th-grade students with a ZSE spirit parade in honor of their promotional ceremony. Best of luck to all of our students at ZMS

ZSE Staff and students proudly recognize Z.S.E. Campus Police Officer Mario Garcia, support staff Truancy Officer Reyna Yanez, and Campus Security Ray Moya during the 2023 National Police Officer Week. Thank you for all you do to keep our students, staff, and school safe. You are greatly appreciated

Zapata Middle School 7th graders enjoying their field trip at Main Event.

Donuts with Dad at Villarreal Elementary! Thank you to everyone that were able to join us today. A special thank you to the Border Patrol agents that came in to help us.

A special thank you to the following students for showing Villarreal Pride all day, every day. These students show up to school daily, work hard on their academics, and display a positive attitude with their teachers and peers. The following students were selected to be part of the VES Student Advisory Committee to help administrators and teachers meet the needs of all students that attend Villarreal Elementary. These students are excited and ready to take on the 2023-2024 school year. We would like to acknowledge George Mendoza, Olivia Villarreal, Jose Quiroz, Daleyssa Martinez, and Tristian Martinez for all your dedication and commitment to VES.

Zapata South Elementary Kinder students had a great time on their end of year field trip. They got to watched the Super Mario Bros. movie and followed with lunch at Chuck E. Cheese!

Zapata Middle School would like to recognize our amazing nurses for all they do. Happy National Nurses' Week, and know that you always have the support of ZMS staff!

Z.S.E. Staff and students are excited to congratulate our 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Kristina Serna, and Instructional Assistant of the Year, Mrs. Juanita Lopez for receiving this honor. Thank you for your love and dedication to our students and our school! You have made this year so sweet!

Cinco de Mayo celebration at Zapata North Elementary School!

VES celebrates Principal Mrs. Patricia V. Saldaña.
May you be Proud of the Work you do, the Person you are, and the Difference YOU MAKE ✌🏼♥️☺️‼️
#VillarrealPride

Zapata Middle School would like to congratulate Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Ana Del Bosque & Instructional Assistant of the Year, Mr. Jorge Gutierrez for receiving this honor. Good job guys, we are proud of you!!

Thank you, Mr. Clyde Guerra, Jr., for your outstanding leadership. ZHS appreciates everything that you do!
#HawkPride #HawkNation #SchoolPrincipalsDay

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to the best teachers in the world! Thank you for all you do for our students! ZNE loves you and appreciates all you do every day.

A big congratulations to Ms. Isela Dominguez and Mrs. Claudia Paredes for being selected as Teacher of the Year and Instructional Assistant of the Year at Zapata North Elementary School. We appreciate and thank you for all your hard work and commitment to our students!

Teacher Appreciation at Villarreal Elementary!! Words can not express the gratitude we have for all our teachers. THE BEST TEAM EVER! #villarrealpride  Enjoy your week❤️✌🏻

Congratulations to Mrs. Roxana Dominguez and Ms. Renee Maya for being chosen as Teacher and Instructional Assistant of the year. VES is proud of you ✌🏼 #villarrealpride

Congratulations to Zapata High School Teacher of the Year, Ms. Selina Mata and Instructional Assistant of the Year, Ms. Mari Elizalde. Thank you for your dedication to our students!!

#HawkPride

Happy Administrative Professional’s Day to our amazing ZSE secretaries! Your hard work and dedication to our school, staff, and students is greatly appreciated! We are lucky to have you!

Z.N.E.S.  recognized their amazing front office team and wish them a Happy Administrative Professional’s Day. You all are greatly appreciated for everything that you do!

Z.N.E.S. would like to wish the ZCISD Transportation Department a happy School Bus Drivers’ Day. Thank you for always ensuring our journeys are safe. You all are awesome!

Congratulations to the following students from Zapata North Elementary for being selected as students of the week for 

the week of April 10 - April 14. 🎉Great job students! Keep up the good work!🌟

A.L. Benavides Elementary students kick-off the Spring season with a positive attitude by flying a kite. Each student was given a kite provided by the school. Students' ultimate educational goal is to "FLY & AIM HIGH, THE SKY IS THE LIMIT!". Special Thank You to Mr. Pedro Morales, County Commissioner Pct. 2 for lending us the baseball field

Author Rosella Newman, and illustrator, Javier Ivan Perez presented their new book to Zapata North Elementary students in PreK-2nd grade. Special thanks to Mocha, the Chihuahua dog who was so good to all our students, allowing them to pet her after the reading.

Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Meeting/ Reunión de Participación Familiar y Comunitaria (FACE) April 12, 2023

Thank you to all parents for participating in today’s Family and Community Engagement Meeting. Special thanks to our Federal Programs Department for hosting this event!!

A.L. Benavides Elementary students participate in an Autism Awareness and Acceptance Walk in their quest of being heard in support of individuals with Autism and their families. "AUTISM SPEAKS" campaign.

These students participated at the Solo and Ensemble Contest this past weekend. Very proud of their hard work and dedication. #purohawkpride

Zapata Middle School is proud to recognize the following Merlins who successfully completed 100 days of perfect attendance this school year. A huge CONGRATULATIONS goes out to you and keep up the good work!!

Zapata High School held a PTO meeting on Feb. 2. Very important information was shared by principal, Mr. Clyde Guerra. Parents were treated to mariachi music and donuts! Thank you to all those who attended! #HawkPride

JRTOC Cadets competed Sat. Jan. 28, 2023 at a Drill Meet @ Henrietta M. King HS in Kingsville, TX.

Congratulations to Hawk Tennis Players Juan Reyes and Steven Gonzalez on winning the Laredo Winter Classic Boys Doubles Championship. Also congratulations to Pedro Gonzalez for getting third place in Boys Singles. The Hawk Tennis Team had a very solid start to the Spring Season at this tournament. 

Hawks vs Pirates
On Thursday, January 12, 2023, a group of ZHS GEARUp students toured Texas State Technical College (TSTC) in Harlingen, TX. Students had the opportunity to inquire and gather information on a plethora of certifications #GEARUPworks #HawkPride
Zapata High School team building Christmas Scavenger Hunt!

Congratulations Ashley Dominguez!

Jump-Start Prep Program 2022

TAMIU FALL PREVIEW DAY
ZHS Counselors Kick Off Red Ribbon Week:
North Elementary Celebrates Red Ribbon Week!

Lady Hawks XC Team! Congratulations on advancing to regionals. Way to Go Lady Hawks! #hawkprideforever!

ZNE students learn all about bus safety during Bus Safety Week. Special thanks to our ZCISD bus drivers who presented a very informational lesson to our students.

ZHS Counseling Dept ”United” with students to stand against bullying. #unityday2022

ZHS Family Reading Night.
Zapata Middle School Family Reading Night
Our teachers and supportive staff were showered with love today in honor of World Teacher Day. Over 600 flower dedications were collected and personalized for our wonderful staff! Students were delighted for the opportunity to share their love and gratitude for past and present educators who have shaped their academic journey thus far! Thank you for all you do and the tremendous influence you have had on our students! You are so loved! 

ZNES would like to thank Sherriff Ray Del Bosque and his deputies for donating over 30 pumpkins for our Pumpkin Patch!! 

Special thanks to Mrs. Adriana Lopez's 4th-grade class for helping set up the ZNE Pumpkin Patch.

Middle School Students

wrote "Messages of Hope" in recognition of National Suicide Month.

Zapata Middle School

ZHS Freshmen Orientation.. making the transition from middle school to high school a positive one.
Hawk Pride!

 Merlin Pride! 6th Grade Orientation!

ZHS Cheerleader Choreography Camp.

Pre-Kinder, Kinder, and First Grade students went on an instructional field trip to the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi, Texas, as a culmination activity for what they learned throughout our time in Summer School. This field trip allowed our students to engage with animals, inspire appreciation for our seas, and support wildlife conservation. 


Join Us!! Free meals for kids up to 18 years old. The ZCISD Child Nutrition Department is currently participating in the Seamless Summer Program at various sites.

Sites include;  Zapata High School, Zapata Middle School, Fidel & Andrea Villareal Elementary, Zapata South Elementary, Lopeno Learning Center, Falcon Nutrition Center, Siesta Shores Park, Zapata Community Center.  The program will continue throughout the month of June, with the last day of service being June 30, 2022. Join us at any of the participating sites!!!

2022 Hawk Tennis Camp

ZMS Mariachi Summer Camp

Zapata Middle School future 6th graders are attending the Summer Mariachi Camp where they will be learning the foundations and skills needed to play a mariachi instrument. Good job Merlins!

Educational enrichment programs can be an excellent opportunity for gifted students to develop a variety of skills and interests. ZCISD Elementary Summer Camps are being offered at the South Elementary starting May 31-June 6.