Texas Border Business
PHARR – PSJA Southwest Early College High School Head Custodian Hector Zuñiga is admired by his peers and beloved by students for going above and beyond his daily duties. Having dedicated over 40 years working for the district, Zuñiga shared that giving back to his community and inspiring students is one of his biggest motivations.
“PSJA ISD is my life,” said Zuñiga who graduated from PSJA High School in 1978. “It’s awesome to see how much the district has grown. We’re a big family and I enjoy working with everyone.”
According to Zuñiga, he started working for the district shortly after graduating from high school as a Shipping and Receiving Foreman in 1979.
“I finished high school and didn’t listen to my parents. I got married at a young age,” shared the 59-year-old who has worked as a custodian for the last eight years. “Over the years I have learned a lot. I love learning different things.”
Besides excelling in his duties as the Head Custodian, PSJA Southwest ECHS Assistant Principal Israel Nicanor shared that Zuñiga goes out of his way to mentor and support students.
“One of the things that makes Mr. Zuñiga stand out is how attentive he is to his job,” said Nicanor. “He’s very dedicated and always goes above and beyond with his duties. He is always glad to help.”
Despite not continuing his education, Zuñiga shared that he makes it his mission to encourage students to stay in school and pursue their education.
“I love all the opportunities students have now,” said Zuñiga. “I am always encouraging students to take advantage of the college classes they can take here through STC because we didn’t have that when I was in school.”
Nicanor shared how the school’s students and staff try to show their appreciation as often as they can through special luncheons and by simply taking the time to thank them for their work.
“Custodians are a very crucial part of our team and district,” said Nicanor. “There are no words to express our gratitude for what they do. It’s a humbling job and it’s always great to see them do it with enthusiasm and pleasure. They are the unsung heroes of PSJA.”
