PSJA ISD hosts renaming ceremony for Jesus "Jesse" Vela, Jr. Middle School 

Longtime leader recognized for over 50 years of dedication to education and community leadership 

ALAMO -  On Friday, November 10, 2023, the Jesus "Jesse" Vela, Jr. Renaming Ceremony brought together members of the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) and the local community to commemorate a distinguished Board of Trustees member. The renaming of the former Alamo Middle School to Jesus "Jesse" Vela, Jr. Middle School pays tribute to the enduring legacy of a revered educator and dedicated community leader. 

Attendees of the event included school district leaders and staff, members of the PSJA Education Foundation, officials from the cities of Pharr, San Juan, and Alamo, Hidalgo County, members of the PSJA Class of 1966, as well as members and friends of the Vela Family. 

“Jesse, you will always be remembered for your dedication, composure, leadership, your style of delivering a message, but, more than anything else, you will be remembered for the love you have for your communities and for the children you serve,” said School Board President Carlos Villegas, Jr. during his remarks. “It’s an honor to be with you celebrating with you and your family something that will be a legacy for PSJA for years to come.” 

The ceremony also included remarks from Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias, Principal Pedro Treviño, Mr. Jesus "Jesse" Vela, Jr., and his sons Ariel Jesus, Omar Joel, and Hiram Josue Vela. Attorney Michael Cano served as the Master of Ceremonies. 

“Today is a great day in the history of our beloved PSJA district as we come together to express our deepest gratitude and celebrate an extraordinary individual, Mr. Jesus “Jesse” Vela, Jr. In his unwavering dedication for an astounding 39 years of tireless service to our community,” said PSJA Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias during his remarks. “He has not only shaped the landscape of our district but has also profoundly impacted the lives of our students and families.” 

Over a span of more than 50 years, Mr. Vela has served as a source of inspiration in the field of education, taking on various roles such as teacher, coach, counselor, educational diagnostician, Migrant Program Director, and Federal Program Director at PSJA ISD. Through these diverse experiences, he gained a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape, empowering him to effectively advocate for the needs of both students and educators. 

Mr. Vela expressed gratitude for this incredible honor and humbly stated that he strived to make things better during his time as a PSJA ISD educator, administrator, school board member, and community member. 

“The teachers, coaches, administrators, and everybody connected with the school touched my life. If you crossed my path, you understood that we were going to make things better,” said Mr. Jesus “Jesse” Vela, Jr., who also graduated from PSJA High School in 1966. “My sole purpose and what I felt was important as a school board member was to transform bigger organizations.” 

For official photos of the ceremony, visit the PSJA ISD Facebook page. The livestream of the ceremony is available on YouTube and Facebook. 

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