Losoya Middle School head custodian Amalia Gonzalez didn’t hesitate to open the Losoya Middle School gym to help families keep warm during the Big Freeze of ’21. From Feb. 14th through Feb. 19th, thousands of families in the Southside ISD went without electricity and water while temperatures remained below freezing. A fast decision by Superintendent Mr. Rolando Ramirez not only allowed families to spend the night in the gym and shower, and provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner to families. The warming center cared for 250 people during the 48 hours it was open.
On Tuesday, March 2, Superintendent Ramirez presented plaques to custodians, child nutrition workers, and a paraprofessional for their role in operating the warming center. Workers received plaques that read, “With Deep Appreciation and Gratitude for Your Tireless Service in Caring for Hundreds at the District’s Warming Center During the Big Freeze of ’21.” The honorees include:
- Ms. Maria Gutierrez, Secretary to Asst. Supt. Dr. Jodi Spoor
- Ms. Amalia Gonzalez, Head custodian at Losoya Middle School
- Ms. Misty Hinojosa, Child Nutrition Manager at Losoya Middle School
- Mr. Felix Hernandez, Custodian at Losoya Middle School
- Ms. Fabiola Cortez, Custodian at Losoya Middle School
- Ms. Amanda Ochoa, Freedom Elementary para-professional
Losoya MS Head Custodian Amalia Gonzalez 
Secretary Ms. Maria Gutierrez 
Losoya MS Child Nutrition Mgr. Misty Hinojosa 
Freedom Elem. para-professional Amanda Ochoa 
Losoya MS Custodian Felix Hernandez 
Losoya MS Custodian Fabiola Cortez 
Supt. Ramirez surprises Freedom Elem. para-professional Amanda Ochoa. 
Supt. Ramirez congratulates the Losoya MS staff. 
The Big Freeze ’21 award replicates a block of ice. 
A family huddles at Losoya MS during the Big Freeze of ’21. 
A family stays warm at Losoya MS during the Big Freeze ’21. 
Volunteers staff a goodies table at Losoya MS during the Big Freeze ’21. 
Ms. Maria Gutierrez and Ms. Amalia Gonzalez at the Losoya MS warming center during the Big Freeze ’21.