Source: Houston Public Media

Long-serving HISD Trustee Manuel Rodriguez, Jr. passed away Wednesday morning from a massive heart attack, according to an announcement at City Hall. Rodriguez was first elected to the HISD board of trustees more than ten years ago in 2003. He represented HISD District Three, which covers the southeast part of the Houston and includes Chavez and Milby high schools. A recognized leader in Houston’s East End, Rodriguez was inducted into the National Hispanic Institute Hall of Fame in 2013. Many throughout Houston ISD have expressed their deepest sympathy in light of his passing. There were already five seats on the HISD board scheduled for elections this November. Rodriguez’ passing will mean a sixth seat on the nine-person board will up for a special election or a board appointment. It’s not clear when that will be scheduled.