Paragraph 1: Tragedy Strikes at School Pickup
A devastating car accident during student pickup after a holiday performance at Excelled Montessori Plus School in San Antonio, Texas, claimed the life of a beloved 22-year-old preschool teacher and injured five children. The incident occurred around 4:15 p.m. on Thursday when a parent, having loaded her children into her vehicle, unexpectedly accelerated, colliding with another car. This initial impact propelled both vehicles towards a fence where teacher Alexia Rosales and several students were playing, resulting in Rosales being pinned beneath one of the cars.
Paragraph 2: Heroic Teacher’s Final Act
Rosales, described by her mother as a "teacher from the heart," tragically lost her life at the scene despite the efforts of fire officials who used a hydraulic lift to free her from beneath the vehicle. Her mother, Berenice, heartbreakingly revealed that Alexia’s final act was to shield a child from the oncoming vehicles. This selfless act underscored her dedication and love for the children she cared for, highlighting the tragic loss experienced by the school community. Students adored Rosales, always wanting to be near her, further demonstrating the impact of her warm and caring nature on their lives.
Paragraph 3: Chaos and Injuries in the Aftermath
The chaotic scene unfolded with five children sustaining injuries and being rushed to nearby hospitals. Their conditions varied, adding to the anxiety and concern gripping the school and surrounding community. Another teacher, Alicia, who was also present during the incident, suffered a severe head injury requiring twelve stitches. She recounted the harrowing experience of being pinned under the fence gate after the collision, yet managed to hand off several children to bystanders before receiving medical attention. Despite her own injuries, Alicia expressed relief that "the babies were okay."
Paragraph 4: Investigation and Driver’s Medical History
Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar addressed the media, stating that the initial investigation did not suggest criminal intent. He revealed that the driver who initiated the accident had a pre-existing medical history that may have contributed to the incident. While the investigation continues, authorities do not suspect intoxication or any other criminal activity played a role. This information, while not alleviating the grief, provides some context to the tragic sequence of events.
Paragraph 5: Community Mourning and Support for Rosales’ Family
Excelled Montessori Plus School closed on Friday to allow the community to mourn the loss of their cherished teacher. In a heartfelt statement, school officials described Rosales as a "bright light," whose smile, laughter, and boundless love for the children created a warm and welcoming environment. To support Rosales’ family during this difficult time, the school initiated a GoFundMe campaign, reflecting the outpouring of support and love for the dedicated young teacher.
Paragraph 6: A Life Dedicated to Education
Alexia Rosales’ passion for teaching was evident despite her family’s concerns about the financial challenges of the profession. She pursued her degree while working part-time at the school’s daycare, demonstrating her commitment to education. Her mother shared that Alexia was a dedicated student and a devoted daughter, never causing any problems. Set to graduate next year, her dreams of a fulfilling career as an educator were tragically cut short. Her mother poignantly summarized her daughter’s life, saying, "She was born to be a teacher.” This statement encapsulates the profound loss of a young life dedicated to nurturing and educating children, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
