Perfecto Mancha Elementary Ribbon Cutting held yesterday

The Eagle Pass Independent School District (EPISD) hosted the ribbon cutting ceremony of the new Perfecto Mancha Elementary on Wednesday, September 22, 2010, amidst an overflowing crowd of students, teachers, community leaders, and family members of the late Perfecto Mancha.

EPISD Executive Director for Human Services Gilberto Gonzalez was the Master of Ceremonies. The C.C. Winn High School 92nd Air Force Junior ROTC presented the colors. The Pledge of Allegiance was presented by U.S. Army First Lieutenant Sergio Mancha, grandson of Perfecto Mancha. The invocation was done by Bobby Joe Galan, grandson of Perfecto Mancha. Gonzalez introduced the guests.

EPISD Board of Trustees President Rodolfo Lopez welcomed the guests. EPISD Superintendent Jesus Sanchez described the distinguished public service career of Perfecto Mancha. EPISD Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rebecca Robinson introduced the keynote speaker and special guests.

Keynote speaker Patricia Mancha, granddaughter of Perfecto Mancha, thanked the EPISD and community for honoring her grandfather with the naming of the newest elementary school in the community. Mancha noted her grandfather always stressed the importance of getting an education and would have been very proud of this honor.

Co-Keynote speaker Dr. Guillermo Mancha, Jr., grandson of Perfecto Mancha, stated the Mancha family genuinely appreciated the community’s honor and consideration of his grandfather, Perfecto Mancha, accomplishments in naming the school.

Retired EPISD teacher Arturo Mancha, son of Perfecto Mancha, presented the closing remarks. The C.C. Winn High School Toro Azabache Mariachi Band under the direction of Carlos Martinez entertained the guests throughout the ceremony.

Members of the Perfecto Mancha family joined EPISD Board of Trustees, Superintendent, school principal, and the school PTO President in the ceremonial ribbon cutting.

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests were given tours of Perfecto Mancha Elementary and refreshments.