It was an exciting day for the friends and family of former United ISD Board Member Juan Roberto Ramirez as the district held a Grand Opening Celebration for the middle school which bears his name. The breakfast ceremony was held Friday, October 18th at the new school located at 402 Aquero Blvd., close to the World Trade International Bridge.
The Juan Roberto Ramirez Middle School celebration included several guest speakers who reminded us of the great legacy Mr. Ramirez is leaving at UISD; he's one of the longest serving and beloved board members in the district. Members of his family and district leaders expressed the love and admiration which is felt across the district for his never ending dedication to the students and families he represented, especially in the Mines Road community.
Mr. Ramirez, a Vietnam veteran, is well known for his positive leadership and never ending optimism and his famous saying, "Que no se acabe United!" During his tenure, he gave a remarkable 20 years of service to the children of UISD. Board Members were present to honor Mr. Ramirez including Secretary Michelle Molina, who now represents his former District 6. Also present were Javier Montemayor, Jr., Frank Castillo and Gilbert Aguilar, Jr.
The school's beautiful new gymnasium was packed with school district personnel and family all sharing in this special tribute to Mr. Ramirez. Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz congratulated the honoree and his family and thanked the former board member for his long service. Several members of Mr. Ramirez's family spoke, including his son Juan Ramirez Jr. and his Godson, who works at the school, Jose Arreazola.
The new school opened its doors on August 14th for the 2024-25 School Year with Principal Juan Antonio Herrera, Jr. leading the school staff and students.
The principal spoke about the great pride and joy of heading the beautiful new school named after the man he admires. Mr. Ramirez graciously came to the podium to thank everyone for the enormous love bestowed upon him on this grand day, and he was happy to cut the ribbon for the grand opening, which was followed by great applause from everyone present.
Students were showcased at the event with performances by the Mighty Rattler Band, Cheerleaders and the Crimson Rattlers Dance Team. A special moment took place when the United High School Mariachi Unidos arrived to serenade the guest of honor.
The UISD Executive Director of Public Relations Susan Carlon served as the Master of Ceremonies and introduced a video presentation of Mr. Ramirez's life and service. The family and the school were presented with gifts, which included photos of the school and students.
The spacious design of the new school encompasses two stories and 110,050 square feet to accommodate 1,000 students. Construction was completed in two years at a cost of $22,345,480. The school serves 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. Architect Randy Hohlaus of Alta Architects designed the building.
Highlights of the campus include: 27 classrooms, 4 science labs, 2 computer labs, 2 special education classrooms, an art classroom, and a home economics classroom. The Fine Arts wing houses a band hall, ensemble room, rehearsal room, 5 practice rooms, and a 10,340 square foot gymnasium furnished with weight and dressing rooms.
The campus' main entrance is fortified by security guards and UISD Police, who utilize high-tech security to monitor all foot traffic entering and exiting the campus. The school has camera surveillance systems and additional technology to observe indoor and outdoor activity within all campus perimeters.
The school mascot is the Rattlesnake and the school colors are red and silver.
(Additional photos and/or video available upon request.)
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