NEWS RELEASE
July 8, 2019
Christine Robertson, Executive Director
(805) 549-1300 

Andrea Blanco Legacy Fund Established to
Continue Beloved Educator’s Work and Impact

SAN LUIS OBISPO —  In response to an outpouring of community interest in how they can continue the work and legacy of beloved educator and community member Andrea Blanco, the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation has established the Andrea Blanco Legacy Fund. 

Consistent with Andrea’s work as a teacher and advocate for the Latino community and disadvantaged students, funds contributed to the Andrea Blanco Legacy Fund will be dedicated to providing scholarships and resources to help students access to opportunity. 

Andrea Blanco’s career as a teacher on the central coast began in 1996 as a part-time bilingual aid for Bishop’s Peak Elementary School. Andrea’s longest tenure was at Laguna Middle School, where she taught from 2000 to 2017, and was in charge of both the English Learning Advisory Committee and the After-School Program. She most recently served the students and families of Pacheco Elementary School. 

“She encompassed a person who did everything in her power to help kids,” former colleague at Laguna Middle School Cathy Ahearn said. “It didn’t matter what walk of life they came from.” 

Andrea was known in the community for going above and beyond for her students — from ensuring a student has a ride to school to frequently helping students’ families with immigration issues. Andrea was also known for staying connected with students, helping them with college applications and beyond. 

“She was the most caring and the most patient person I knew,” Ahearn added. “She knew how to connect not only with kids, but parents and the community.” 

Andrea passed away last month from complications from a knee surgery, at the age of 62. She is survived by her husband Arturo and daughters Marisa and Cristina. 

To contribute to the Andrea Blanco Legacy Fund or learn more, visit the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation website at www.slcef.org.  

# # #