Hemphill Elementary School Assistant Principal Dr. Jesse Porras Jr. died at home last Tuesday due to an illness, Hays CISD has announced.
Porras, 58, had been Hemphill’s assistant principal for 10 years and was a much beloved figure on campus, according to a district news release.
“He was proud of our school. He loved our kids and loved our staff,” said Hemphill Elementary Principal Paige Collier. “We were his second home. We loved him and will miss him dearly.”
Students, teachers, and staff learned of Porras’ death last Wednesday after arriving at school. Counselors were on campus to help with the initial grieving process, and throughout the day students drew pictures and made cards for Porras’ family. He is survived by his wife Judith and daughter Leah. The campus also sent a letter home to parents.
Staff and students at Hemphill Elementary plan to plant a memorial tree in his honor later this fall.
