Jiménez Elementary School Opens in Santa Maria, July 29th 2015.

On a day that looked like the opening chapter in one of Francisco Jiménez's books, the author himself, known to us as "Panchito", walks past a building named after him and his brother Roberto. This building is part of a complex that will house a new bilingual elementary school in Santa Maria, California.  

Dr. Francisco Jiménez arrives with wife Laura to the dedication ceremony.  

His books tell the story of two immigrant boys, children of migrant farm workers, living in extreme poverty but full of faith, hope and a love of education and family. Other children were born chapter after chapter of book 1, "Cajas de Cartón." or in English "The Circuit".

Or view on Youtube:

The ribbon cutting ceremony was full of joy and anticipation for a school year that begins in just two weeks.

I teach Spanish and include Dr. Jiménez's books in Spanish 7 and above. We read the stories, we also write about our own life experiences and get to know each other better.

Dr. Jiménez signing our books. He is gracious and kind, humble and friendly.

Robin Sawaske (left) Spanish student and former Associate Superintendent of the Santa Barbara School District, Dr. Francisco Jiménez (center) and Silvia Morgan (right) - As two of his biggest fans, we couln't miss the opportunity to meet him in person and tell him how much we admire his inspirational and educational autobiographical works. :)

IN THE NEWS: 

Noozhawk: http://www.noozhawk.com/article/new_jimenez_school_dedicated_in_santa_maria

Santa Maria Times: http://syvnews.com/news/jimenez-elementary-santa-maria-s-newest-school-breaks-ground/article_da6137a9-2c74-5802-99c5-2933577653a3.html


NUEVAS NOTICIAS:

Primer día de clase en la escuela Jiménez:  http://www.noozhawk.com/article/santa_maria_new_elementary_school_marks_first_day