Menchaca Early Childhood Center

UNICEF Kid Power recognizes Women Educators for International Women’s Day annually by special invitation. For the second year, Dr. Melanie Morgan, has been invited and is being recognized as a UNICEF Kid Power woman educator who helps to empower students to help save lives!

Last year’s recognition of Dr. Morgan highlighted how she taught and encouraged the next generation that they can make a difference no matter how young they are. UNICEF recognized her leadership and ability to serve as a guiding light to so many kids.

On March 14th, Dr. Morgan will be recognized for the role she continues to play in teaching children to save lives. As a way to assist children worldwide, Dr. Morgan uses features of UNICEF Kid Power in counseling with students. As each resource is used, virtual coins are given and students can redeem them for Ready-to-Use-Therapeutic Food referred to as miracle food that is used to treat and save the lives of severely malnourished children around the globe. There is also a local impact, too, so it gives meals to families locally, plants trees, and provides health care services. It shows kids what they are capable of and even how they can solve giant global problems like starvation. Dr. Morgan helps kids see that they have the power to make a positive difference. We’re honored to have Dr. Morgan at Menchaca Early Childhood Center.

At Menchaca we believe learning is always happening and the opportunities are all around us. Despite the pandemic still plaguing our nation, we want to share free and low-cost outdoor activities our families can participate in.

Mitchell Lake Audubon Center: This conservation-minded oasis is a must-see for those looking to learn about native birds and wildlife and connect with nature in a truly stunning environment near our area.

Mission Reach Bike Trail: Enjoy riding bikes or scooters? You can park at Roosevelt Park and make your way south, stopping at Concepcion Park for playground time and finishing up at Mission Park Pavilion for a well-earned picnic. Families with younger kids can make Concepcion Park their end route. You can enjoy stopping by Mission San Jose and watching the short free movie that “tells the story of the native people of 18th-century South Texas, their role in colonizing New Spain, and the results of entering the Spanish missions.”

Pearsall Park: Boasting a giant playground, zip line, splash pad, skate park, and more, Pearsall Park is a top pick as a 500-acre park. It really is one of a kind, especially the trails on the moon-like rolling hills.

Confluence Park—Located on the South Side at 310 W. Mitchell Street, Confluence Park is a newer South Side spot, which offers pavilions, murals, and interactive learning opportunities all along the river.