National Blue Ribbon Schools Program

Petronila, Texas, a small rural community nestled between the historic cities of Kingsville and Corpus Christi, was established in the early 1900s. The campus consolidated with Bishop CISD in the early 1970s and became an elementary school serving Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade students. This Title 1 School has maintained small class sizes of 15-20 students per grade, predominantly Hispanic and economically disadvantaged. Serving at-risk students is challenging, yet the positive campus morale aids in supporting the needs of diverse students. Every child is seen as an individual with different academic, emotional, physical, social, and cultural needs.

Students access technology through a variety of means at Petronila Elementary School. Through grant funding, students in grades first through fifth are each issued a mobile tablet to use at home and school. For students needing Internet access at home, a Wi-Fi device is made available. Teachers and staff feel strongly about preparing students with appropriate technological skills and digital citizenship.

The staff believes that high expectations coupled with a welcoming and nurturing campus climate cultivates a learning environment that supports development of the whole child. Providing students at Petronila Elementary School an educational experience with innovative instructional programs and activities sets the stage for helping them develop. Everyone who walks through the quaint, rural school feels the warmth of dedicated teachers and staff who promote high achievement needed to create an enjoyable learning experience.