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For over two decades, Juanita Duchicela has been a cornerstone of the Parents as Teachers program of Rural South-Central Texas. From her early days as a Parent Educator to her later role in the Weimar Learn and Playroom, Juanita has poured her heart into creating engaging, educational spaces for local families.
Juanita played a pivotal role in shaping the Learn and Playrooms into the nurturing environments they are today. Through her dedication, these rooms have become a place where families can bond, learn, and prepare their children for school. She ensured that every activity was both fun and educational, investing her own resources to provide materials and experiences that supported the development of school readiness skills for all children.
With a strong commitment to inclusivity, Juanita introduced bilingual classes to support Spanish- speaking families, helping them gain confidence in the English language so they could better assist their children in their educational journey. Even when the pandemic halted in-person gatherings, Juanita adapted by creating instructional videos for parents, ensuring that learning continued at home.
Her classes were known for their hands-on craft projects, which were enjoyed by both children and parents. Juanita’s infectious energy, whether through dancing, singing, or leading activities, helped create a lively and joyful atmosphere. She also made sure that each milestone, such as the transition to 4K, was celebrated with memorable graduation events and thoughtful goodie bags filled with summer learning activities.
Under her leadership, the Weimar Learn and Playroom often saw attendance soar, with more than 35 parents and children participating at times. Juanita’s ability to maintain a positive, organized environment, even with large groups, was a testament to her passion and expertise.
The Learn and Playrooms reopened on Sept. 9 in Weimar and Sept. 10 in Schulenburg and will continue to reflect Juanita’s dedication and vision. The rooms are open to all local families, offering a welcoming space for learning and growth.
“We are deeply grateful for Juanita’s 20 years of service,” said Karen Hoskins, Program Director, Parents as Teachers of Rural South-Central Texas. “Her selflessness and passion for early education have touched countless families, and her legacy will live on in the programs she helped build.”
Juanita, who has officially retired, leaves behind a legacy of nurturing and education that will continue to benefit the community for years to come. Her impact on early childhood education in the region is profound, and she will be remembered for her tireless work to ensure every child felt special and loved. She loves the Learn and-Playroom so much that she will continue to bring her grandchildren when they are visiting her.
For more information on the Learn and Playrooms, or the PAT program, visit www.sw-pat.org or call 979-743-6584.
