The Laredo Independent School District Board of Trustees dedicated the Milton Elementary School Library during a ceremony on Wednesday morning. The library was named in memory of the late Anna Laura Herrera-Garza, the school’s librarian from 1993 to 2023.
The Herrera-Garza family, close friends, and former colleagues gathered to honor her life and the naming of this facility. LISD Board of President Monica Garcia, LISD Board Secretary Dr. Gil Martinez, and LISD Superintendent Dr. Sylvia Rios addressed the audience.
“Today, as we dedicate this library in Mrs. Herrera-Garza’s honor, we carry forward her torch of passion and her unrelenting commitment to the pursuit of knowledge,” said Monica Garcia, LISD Board President. “Each time a child discovers a love for reading, when a student stumbles upon an answer to a pressing question, or when a community member finds solace within these walls, we will know that her impact lives on.”
Herrera-Garza began her teaching career as a teacher for Laredo Independent School District. Mrs. Herrera-Garza was a devoted Laredo ISD educator for 35 years where she committed her time, talents, and resources to the students of Milton Elementary School. She began her career as a classroom teacher and then moved to the school’s library position after getting her certification. She served as the school’s librarian for 30 years.
David Gonzales, son of the honoree, spoke on behalf of the family. “This is an emotional event for my entire family. This library was her life and it meant the world to her,” said Gonzales. “Thank you to the LISD Board of Trustees, Superintendent Dr. Sylvia Rios, and the Milton Elementary School faculty for this special honor you have bestowed on my mother. I know she is loving this. She would want to be here.”
Herrera-Garza worked staunchly for her students to succeed in the Accelerated Reader Program. She went above and beyond for the school’s annual Family Reading Night. She was famous for her Dr. Suess events such as the Dr. Suess Parade, Cat in the Hat Celebration, and Grinch Week. Mrs. Herrera-Garza was affectionately called #1, will be remembered as a committed and hardworking educator.
The Milton Elementary School Choir, under the direction Mario Limon, performed the National Anthem. Milton Elementary School students Victoria Sotelo and Alejandro Gonzalez led the Pledge of Allegiance.
During the ceremony guests were treated to a performance featuring the Milton Elementary School Ballet Folklorico directed by Leslie Izaguirre. Guests also enjoyed entertainment prior to the ceremony from the Milton Elementary Choir and the Lamar Middle School Band. Guests were also treated to refreshments after the ceremony.