Laredo Educational Autism Foundation - LEAF

I'll be honest, I did consider cancelling this ribbon cutting ceremony in light of the water boil notice from this past weekend, but I decided to move forward with it because my constituents have been clear: they want us to address our water issues AND continue investing in quality of life projects for this community — plus this project was made possible by a generous $500,000 private donation. I believe we can and should do both at the same time, and I believe Laredo deserves both.

On water: we all know our aging infrastructure has been a problem for decades. I moved to Laredo in 2020 and joined the Council in 2023 — this wasn't created on my watch, but solving it is absolutely my responsibility.

We've made progress through our pipe bursting program, which is replacing lines faster and at lower cost. But we need to do more, and we need to do it quicker, which will require a more significant investment than the money we currently have available. We owe the public a direct conversation about how we are going to do this, and I am committed to having that conversation. This issue is personal to me just as it is for everyone. Water is life. My wife and daughters drink this water every day. I want the best for them and for every family in Laredo.

I hear you, and please know water is my top priority for this community. It's a serious challenge, but one we can solve together if we can get on the same page about what it will take to solve it.

With all that said, I want to invite you and your family to join us tomorrow, Friday May 29th at 1:00 PM at North Central Park to celebrate the new Salamander Play Zone, a play space where every kid can play their way. Since today is the last day of school for most kids, I hope to see you and the kiddos there tomorrow.

CYSHCN Program at Laredo Public Health Department to Offer Sensory Integration and Zumbini Classes for Children and Families This Summer.

Laredo, Texas – The Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs (CYSHCN) Program at the Laredo Public Health Department is excited to announce new summer programming designed to support the development, well-being, and engagement of children and families enrolled in the program, as well as those newly interested in services.

This summer, CYSHCN will offer Sensory Integration Classes held in the department’s sensory rooms. These structured sessions are designed to help children better understand and respond to sensory input in their environment. Sensory-based activities can support improved self-regulation, focus, emotional control, and daily functioning skills. By engaging in a safe, supportive space, children are able to explore sensory experiences that may reduce anxiety, improve behavior, and strengthen their ability to participate in home, school, and community activities.

Parents and caregivers will be encouraged to actively participate in these sessions. Family involvement allows caregivers to better understand their child’s sensory needs and learn strategies they can continue using at home, promoting consistency and long-term progress.

In addition, the program will offer Zumbini Classes, a music-and-movement program designed for young children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. Zumbini combines music, dance, and interactive play to support emotional development, early learning, motor skills, and social engagement. These classes help children build coordination, rhythm, communication, and confidence while strengthening the parent-child bond through shared activities.

Together, these programs aim to support whole-child development by addressing emotional, behavioral, sensory, and physical growth in a fun and engaging environment. CYSHCN continues to prioritize family-centered care by providing opportunities that empower caregivers and promote healthy development for children with special healthcare needs.
For more information or to enroll in the CYSHCN program please contact: Carmen Andrade, Health Educator Supervisor 956-795-4926.

Help keep your child safe by getting them a Child ID card—an important tool that can make a big difference in an emergency.

If long lines or loud environments have made it difficult in the past, don’t worry. The Laredo Public Library is offering a sensory-friendly opportunity at the Joe A. Guerra Public Library, 1120 E. Calton Rd.

This special early access event, “A Gentle Start,” is designed for families with children on the autism spectrum or with sensory sensitivities, providing a quieter, more comfortable experience.

We’ll be there from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM—come visit us and take advantage of this great opportunity!