–Editorial
The Calexico Unified School District has unveiled the McKinney-Vento Academic and Wellness Center (MVP), a new facility designed to offer vital support for students and families experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. Located at the Family Resource Center at 641 Rockwood Avenue in Calexico, the MVP is the first of its kind in southern Imperial County.
Alejandra Limon, Director of Community Schools, underscored the significance of the center, stating, “We are very excited. This is a unique project here in Calexico. It’s the first time we’ve launched anything like this—and it’s the first in the southern part of Imperial County.”
The center currently operates Monday through Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m., providing meals, essential supplies, tutoring, and homework assistance to homeless and foster youth.
“We offer supper and basic necessities, and in time, we aim to collaborate with organizations to provide job readiness support, training, and parenting workshops,” said Limon. “We also integrate trauma-informed practices, wellness programs, and social-emotional learning for our students. Additionally, we support credit recovery, tutoring, and homework help for homeless and foster students—and even offer transportation to and from the center.”
The center was funded through ARP allocations from the state, specifically designated for homeless student services. To secure the funding, the district submitted a comprehensive plan detailing the center’s mission, operations, key stakeholders, and anticipated community impact. State support, Limon noted, was instrumental in bringing this vision to life.
The Family Resource Center also provides essential items such as clothing, school uniforms, laundry services, and support for senior student activities. While it does not offer direct housing, the center helps connect families with housing assistance and other local resources.
“This center reflects the mission of the Family Resource Center—we are the heart of Calexico. Our goal is to expand these services across the broader community and neighboring districts,” Limon emphasized. “We’ve been sharing our progress and welcoming outside organizations to join us. At the core, we believe in supporting the whole child, every child, all the time.”
“This center symbolizes who we are as a community. It stands as proof of our belief that no child should be left behind, that no circumstance should define a student’s future, and that every young person—regardless of their situation—deserves the chance to learn, grow, and succeed,” said Calexico Unified School District Superintendent Arturo Jimenez. “This achievement was made possible through the commitment of our district staff, community partners, and everyone who worked tirelessly to make this dream a reality. As we cut the ribbon today, we’re not just opening doors—we’re opening paths to brighter futures for the students who need us most.”
“This is an incredible program for our youth—a space where they can receive support, meals, and academic resources,” added Calexico Unified School District Board Trustee Michael Castillo. “We are proud and honored to open this facility, the McKinney-Vento program, for our students, their families, and our community. It serves students who may be facing significant hardships and who often don’t know where to seek help. This center, and our caring staff, will connect them with services, referrals, and the support they need. Ultimately, our mission is to help them graduate with a diploma and move forward—whether that means joining the workforce, attending college, or pursuing a military career of their choosing.”
