During the EPISD Board meeting held on Tuesday June 13, the item was brought to the EPISD board by Superintendent of Schools Gilbert Gonzalez.

   During the citizens communication portion of the meeting Larry Martin asked the EPISD board to please consider the request. 

   “When a building is named in someone’s honor it is because that person has been a very positive influence through their life and work,” said Martin. “I ask you to make the Raul Gonzalez Fine Arts Center a reality.” 

   The School Board then proceeded to the agenda item and approved the request in a unanimous vote. The audience then gave a standing ovation in honor of  Gonzalez who was present and accompanied by his family.

 EPISD Board President Lupita Fuentes congratulated Gonzalez and invited him to say a few words to the audience. 

   “I want to thank the Lord for allowing me to come to Eagle Pass in 1981 and work with so many fantastic people and kids,” said Gonzalez.

   He recalled the moment he was given the opportunity to start a band program in Eagle Pass to be able to compete with bigger cities such as San Antonio, truly believing that with hard work and dedication it could be done. Gonzalez also recognized the efforts of Humberto Beto Garza and his support through the band booster parent program.

“Ever since I started, it’s been a pleasure working here,” said Gonzalez. “I want to thank you all for this honor.”