Accelerating Student Growth in Rural Texas

Cotulla ISD in Texas offers a prime example of how strong instructional systems and targeted support can drive meaningful gains in student outcomes. Serving a student population that is 86% economically disadvantaged and 94% Hispanic, Cotulla is also navigating a workforce in which nearly one-third of educators are early-career teachers. Because of this, district leadership has prioritized building systems that support both educators and students.

Under the leadership of the district superintendent, Dr. Ramiro Nava, Cotulla ISD began partnering with NIET in 2023 to establish a clear and consistent approach to instruction. The district focused on implementing core structures such as instructional leadership teams, Cluster meetings, and alignment between teaching standards and evaluation rubrics. These efforts created a foundation for ongoing coaching, collaboration, and data-driven decision-making across schools.

Due to their high number of early-career teachers, a key priority has been to provide that population support to strengthen instruction and drive student achievement. Through Texas’ Mentor Program Allotment, Cotulla ISD is building teacher capacity and confidence, ensuring that new educators receive consistent guidance grounded in classroom evidence and student needs. At the same time, the district has developed and implemented literacy and math frameworks aligned to high-quality instructional materials, helping to ensure strong, standards-based instruction in every classroom.

These efforts are translating into measurable results. Encinal Elementary improved from an F to an A in one year, earning distinctions for academic growth and closing performance gaps. Ramirez Burks Elementary increased its accountability rating by 14 points, while both Newman Middle School and Cotulla High School earned B ratings in school progress.

Cotulla ISD’s progress reflects a clear commitment to building aligned systems, supporting teachers, and maintaining a focus on student outcomes. By investing in instructional leadership and continuous improvement, the district is creating conditions for sustained success.