Sonal Bhuchar, an Indian-American trailblazer, has had a Texas elementary school named after him. In honor of her contributions to the community, the Sonal Bhuchar Elementary School in Missouri City, Texas was named after her. Sonal was a well-known leader and volunteer who served on the Fort Bend Independent School District Board of Trustees and was involved in a number of community organizations.
NEW DELHI: A vibrant elementary school in the heart of Texas now bears the name of Indian-American trailblazer Sonal Bhuchar. This is the story of a school that embodies her legacy, with a spirited dedication ceremony that celebrated her profound impact on the community and those in need.
The Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD) Board of Trustees unanimously approved this historic occasion. Sonal, a radiant soul who died in 2019 at the age of 58 due to cancer complications, lives on through this school, which was funded by a 2018 bond.
Sonal Bhuchar Elementary School, located in the heart of Missouri City, Texas, bears her name with pride, a testament to a woman who was more than just an FBISD board member, but also an esteemed leader, bridge-builder, and inspiration to many. Her commitment to service was unwavering, as she volunteered with organizations such as Child Advocates, the Literacy Council, the Cultural Arts Foundation, and the Fort Bend Education Foundation.
Sonal served on the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees for six years, during which time she held the prestigious position of Board President for two years. Her dedication to the community extended into politics when she ran for the Republican Party’s nomination for State Representative in 2012.
Sonal was appointed to the One Star National Service Commission Board by Texas Governor Greg Abbott in 2015, where she championed volunteerism and oversaw the administration of AmeriCorps programs in Texas.
Sonal’s journey began in Mumbai, where she graduated from Mumbai University with a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy. She and her physician husband, Dr. Subodh Bhuchar, moved to Houston, Texas, in 1984, to start a new chapter in their lives.
This extraordinary school, named in Sonal’s honor, opened its doors in August, ushering in a new era in education and community spirit.
Sonal’s Indian heritage is proudly represented by the school’s mascot, a majestic Bengal tiger named Royal. The acronym ROYAL, which stands for Resilient, Optimistic, Youthful, Admirable, and Leader, encapsulates the essence of her legacy.
