Texas Border Business
MISSION, Texas – Thirty-five years ago, on September 21, 1989, a tragic bus accident shook the Mission community, forever altering the lives of those on-board Bus 6. As we mark this solemn anniversary, Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) students and staff have taken time this week to honor the memory of the 21 lives lost and to reflect on the enduring impact of that day.
Commemorative Ceremonies Across Campuses
Throughout the week, Mission CISD’s 22 campuses held ceremonies of remembrance, each with a unique tribute to the victims.
At Bryan Elementary, white bows were placed along the campus fence, each bow bearing the name of a student whose life was tragically cut short. The poignant display served as a quiet, powerful reminder of the loss that our community still feels to this day.
At Mission High School, a gathering was held at the school’s memorial garden, where students, staff, and community members came together to lay wreaths and observe a moment of silence. The garden, a symbol of resilience and remembrance, has become a sacred space for reflection.
Alton Memorial Junior High, named in honor of the victims of the accident, hosted a special ceremony in the school library. The event featured moving performances by the school’s choir, dance, and orchestra groups, with students paying tribute through music and art, demonstrating that the memory of those lost continues to inspire the next generation.
At Mission Junior High, a heartfelt memorial ceremony was hosted by the Student Council and FCA Officers, along with their sponsors, to honor the anniversary of the tragedy. The event featured moving speeches from Mission CISD Board President Iris Iglesias, Mission Junior High Principal Jessica Dominguez, and student speakers Ramiro Tijerina, Robert Garcia, and Nelly Gill. In remembrance, 21 roses were placed in front of the campus’s memorial statue and plaque.
Dr. Cris Valdez, Superintendent of Schools for Mission CISD, emphasized the importance of remembrance during this time of reflection: “The 35th anniversary of the Alton Bus Accident is a solemn reminder of how precious life is and how deeply this tragedy has affected our entire community. As we honor those who were lost, we also reaffirm our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our students. We will never forget.”
Honoring the Fallen During Football Friday
In a moving new tradition, 21 empty chairs were placed along the sidelines of Tom Landry Stadium during the Friday night football game, each one symbolizing a life lost in the accident. Family members of the victims were invited to the game and personally greeted by Mission CISD Board Members, underscoring the district’s deep ties to those directly affected. Mission CISD Board Members include President Iris Iglesias, Vice President Jerry Zamora, Secretary Veronica “Betty” R. Mendoza, Member Petra B. Ramirez, Member Dolores “Loli” Reyna, Member Natividad “Nati” Sosa, and Member Danny Martinez.
At halftime, the stadium fell silent as a video tribute played on the jumbotron, accompanied by a moment of silence. The tribute concluded with a breathtaking display as the crowd illuminated the stands with cellphone lights, filling the night with a sea of glowing remembrance—a powerful visual testament to the lasting legacy of the 21 students we lost that day.
Never Forgotten
The Mission CISD community continues to honor the memory of those who lost their lives on September 21, 1989. Through ceremonies, art, and new traditions, we ensure that their legacy lives on and that the lessons of that tragic day are never forgotten.
