In 1980, a brand new graduate from UTEP, Alfredo Palacio, came to teach at Father Yermo High School. He came with his tools, his style, and his great heart. He became a role model for generations of students, who learned from his example, and his expert teaching. Alfredo Palacio gave his heart and faithfulness to the philosophy, mission, and leadership of Saint Jose Maria de Yermo y Parres, and to the Sisters who run the schools. In 36 years, Alfredo Palacio, "Mr. P." as he was respectfully called by everyone, served in many capacities: teacher, counselor, and advisor for Student Council, Activities Director, Dean of Studies for the Learning Center, Chair of the Crisis Management Plans, and co-chair in five different cycles of accreditation; senior trip organizer and MC of all celebrations. Besides his teachings and his many hats, he kept the order in the parking lot, prepared the coffee for teachers in the morning, administered entrance exams for incoming students and for future university students, and learned the trade that the new technology required to be always an up-to-date teacher. These were some of the many tasks he accomplished, always with his utmost devotion, humility, love, and loyalty for the institution he dedicated his life to. 

 

As years went by, Mr. Palacio became a mentor teacher and the wisdom that guided new generations. Alfredo Palacio had a very special quality of calming moods that guided to the truth. Always a member of the Administrative Team of the High School, he quietly, he quietly took a more discreet place when younger members showed the energy he once had. He gained the respect and gratitude of generations of students, parents, and colleagues for his professionalism and honorable personality. It was a great honor for Father Yermo Schools, the Sisters, and for his many students, to have had a great and humble man in our midst.