At Waxahachie High School, the Hispanic Educational Preparation Organization, or HEPO, has become an opportunity for many Hispanic students. The club’s purpose is to support Hispanic students who are mostly first generation with the college process. It provides information about how to continue their education past high school. 

President of HEPO and senior Juan Diego Llamas embodies the purpose of HEPO. 

“I decided to become president because I’m very passionate about helping other Hispanic students achieve higher education and it’s important that we emphasize that with this club being here,” Llamas said. 

Advisor of HEPO and WHS teacher Christina Verdin shared how HEPO is an important part of Hispanic Heritage Month. 

“One of the things that this club is equivalent to Hispanic Heritage Month is getting knowledge, getting exposure and teaching. That is what we are striving to do,” Verdin said. 

HEPO member and senior Tony Gonzalez expressed the impact this club can have for Hispanic students. 

“There’s so many good outcomes,” Gonzalez said. “It can improve the student’s learning and give them a visual guide.”

HEPO member and senior Jennifer Ruiz shared her vision for the club’s increased visibility among the student population.

“My vision for the club is for it to get bigger, more well known and for more Hispanic students to be involved in it,” Ruiz said. 

Verdin said that HEPO provides a bridge from high school to college for students who may need guidance on steps after high school from a community of mentors and friends they can depend on.