Posted 1/16/2024

Dance, step, cheer, choral and band performances along with inspiring speeches from diverse student and community leaders, as well as a Palm Beach County proclamation designating January 12, 2024, as Dr. Joaquín García Day, made for a memorable official dedication of Dr. Joaquín García High School. 

Principal Oscar Otero spoke about the community effort that went into bringing to fruition the newest high school in nearly 20 years, both in terms of the physical building and the overall school family. Students proudly spoke about the inclusive school culture and the excitement they have to be part of the first Palm Beach County high school to be named after a Hispanic community leader. 

Dr. Xavier Garcia, husband of the late Dr. Joaquín García, was one of many District and community leaders who spoke about how Dr. Joaquín García was a fierce advocate for education and equity for all children, especially those who are underserved. Palm Beach County Commissioner Gregg Weiss read the county proclamation of Dr. Joaquín García Day and presented copies of the proclamation to Dr. Joaquín García’s family, Principal Otero, and District administrators.  

School Board Chair Karen Brill, Board Vice Chair Barbara McQuinn, School Board members,  the Hispanic Education Coalition, Greenacres Mayor Joel Flores, Congresswoman Lois Frankel’s office, and many more community leaders, staff, family members and friends took part in the ceremony. La Vuelta Palm Beach and the Hispanic Education Coalition presented a check to the Dr. Joaquín García High School Fund and announced there will be a second annual La Vuelta bicycle riding fundraiser event later this year.