The Baja California State Congress has approved a proposal by legislator Ramón Vázquez Valadez to designate Benito Juárez Elementary School in Tijuana as a Benemérita institution.
The school, which has served the community for more than five decades, has educated generations of students with a strong focus on values and academic achievement. The distinction highlights its long-standing role as one of the city’s most recognized public schools.
The recognition notes the school’s history since its founding in 1973, when it was officially inaugurated on July 29 of the same year by then-Governor Milton Castellanos.
Over its 53 years, the school has played a meaningful role in the social and cultural development of its community, promoting values such as respect, responsibility, honesty, justice, and solidarity.
Vázquez noted that parents and education authorities have consistently acknowledged the school’s academic quality, as well as the values students demonstrate in their day-to-day interactions.
He added that the school has graduated generations of students with strong academic and ethical foundations, becoming a reference point in the community for developing well-rounded, engaged citizens.
Congress Honors Long-Serving Educators
At Vázquez’s request, lawmakers also presented recognition to Principal Zayda Ludivina Jiménez Juárez, who has 17 years of service, and teacher Rodrigo Venegas Ramírez, who has taught for 35 years, both at Benito Juárez Elementary School.
Jaime Cantón, president of the Congress’s Board of Directors, said the Legislature was honoring “two educators whose work reflects dedication and commitment, and whose impact is felt across the school community.”
Vázquez, who was once a student of Venegas, praised Principal Jiménez for her commitment to students and described her as an example of devotion to childhood education. He also recalled his experience as a student of Venegas, highlighting the influence of the teacher’s guidance on his own development.
