I was chauffeured to that historical event by my daughter and son-in-law, Carolyn and Terry Walters, for which I am very grateful. We left very early on Sunday morning to make it to festivities on time. Once there, we met with M.J. McDaniel, Superintendent Cron, Principal Woods, several members of the Weatherford School Board, Dr. J. B. Kline and Albert Seguin Gonzales.
Albert spoke on behalf of the Seguin Family about one of our favorite subjects, Col. Juan Seguin and his accomplishments. He Thanked everyone for their dedication to the Seguin school project and what it means to the Seguin Family and above all what it means to the education of the children of Weatherford ISD and what effect it will have on the History of Texas by WISD's recognition of a Native Born Son, a Texas Hero.
Together we presented the new school with a beautiful portrait of Col. Juan N. Seguin donated by Mr. Robert D. McKenzie in memory of his
loving wife Elsie Flores McKenzie and on behalf of the Seguin Family Historical Society.
All family members present were recognized from the podium and made to feel very welcomed and special.
There were several fine speakers who gave detail information on the life of Juan N. Seguin. Dr Deborah Cron, Superintendent of
Schools was so vivacious and visibly excited about the new school and what it means to the future adult citizens of Texas. She like so many
others made us feel so welcomed and very much part of the School family.
Mrs. Rachel Ramirez Johnson, School Board President, another fine Lady, welcomed the Seguin Family with open arms and with such warmth. Her comments on Juan Seguin were from the heart and her dedication to her position, outstanding.
Mrs. Patti Woods, principal of this new school is a very charming and gracious Lady, the school is blessed to have her in that capacity.
Principal Woods is so very proud of the new school and of the technology that is available to the staff and students alike.
Principal Woods presented Albert and I, with a T-shirt each and also made us Honorary Members of the Juan Seguin Elementary School Longhorns.
The Children’s choir under the direction of Zenovia Kidd, provided a wonderful musical program. They started with the Pledge of Allegiance, sang God Bless America and their final song De Colores, was sung in both Spanish and English, they were all great.
We asked a couple of the children how long they had been practicing and we were informed that only for a couple of days. Just goes to show you that children absorb information like sponges.
After the closing remarks, we were asked to join in on the ribbon cutting ceremony conduct by the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce.
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I hope I have not forgotten anyone. Everyone we had the pleasure of meeting had that true Texas Spirit of Friendliness.
What a Great Day We Had! What a Great Day for Texas, What a Great day for an outstanding and deserving Texas Hero, Juan N. Seguin
May God Bless all those who endeavor to lead, guide, teach and protect the children of this fine school. I arrived in Houston, my home, late that night, Happy Tired!
Sincerely,
Julia G. Aguilar, President SFHS
A Note From Albert Seguin Gonzales, Founder, SFHS
These past few years have marked a new era in Texas history with the recognition of a native born Hero of the War for Texas
Independence. What tremendous honors have been bestowed upon a Native Son by other fellow Texans.
196 years after his birth and 166 years after the battle of San Jacinto, a man who believed in education, personal freedoms, the right to self-government and basic human rights has once again been honored with the naming of two elementary schools and one High School in his memory, and all accomplished in the same year.
The Dedication was very well organized and ran like clockwork. The program which was coordinated by M. J. McDaniel could not have gone smoother.
We have no doubt what so ever, that with the technical advantages, and the highly qualified administration and staff, that one day we will hear of a man or woman who attended the Juan N. Seguin Elementary School being elected President of the United States. It is during the first years of growth that young minds are trained and inspired to be curious, taught that through education nothing is impossible, and instilled with a sense dignity, self confidence and the desire to learn. What an awesome task and responsibility those wonderful educators have in front of them. The Children who attend the school will without a doubt have educational advantages the like we never dreamt of just a few years ago.
The school is so grand and was built in such a beautiful wooded area. It stands out as if to beckon your attention as it stands proud and ready to serve the young minds that may one day return to it and say, "here I am, ready to teach other young minds and future successful Texans".
It is with great respect and appreciation that the Seguin Family extends our sincere Thanks to the WISD Board of Trustees, the Administration and the School Personnel.
My personal Thanks to Superintendent Dr. Deborah Cron, WISD Board President Mrs. Rachel R. Johnson and Principal Patti Woods and M. J. Mc Daniel.
