Juanita R. Hernandez — devoted mother, grandmother, sister, teacher and school principal — passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, after a long and valiant battle with cancer.

Born in King City, California, Juanita was preceded in death by her mother Magdalena Magaña, and her father Manuel Banuelos.

She grew up in King City alongside her sisters Dolores Escobar and Rebecca Osuna, and brothers Pascual Banuelos and Jesse Madrigal.

Juanita loved her family deeply, and was a proud and devoted mother and grandmother. She raised two beloved sons and grandchildren to include Justin Banuelos and his son James Banuelos.

Her second son, also named James Banuelos, married to Julie Banuelos raising Juanita’s beloved grandchildren Stella Rose, Lola Ivy, Luna James, and Lorenzo Lee Banuelos.

Juanita began her higher education in 1981 at Hartnell College in Salinas, California, where she was actively involved in student government.

She later transferred to California State University, Chico, where she earned her bachelor of arts degree in 1985, along with a teaching credential and bilingual authorization. She continued her education at San Diego State University, earning her administrative credential in 1998.

Juanita began her career as a bilingual teacher in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District in Watsonville as a bilingual educator.

Her passion and leadership soon led her into administration, serving as principal of H.A. Hyde Elementary School in Watsonville. In 1996, she moved to Escondido Union School District, where she continued her work as a principal.

Juanita’s extensive experience prepared her to take on challenging leadership roles, including serving for eight years as principal of a continuation high school in the Temecula Valley Unified School District, where she worked closely with at-risk high school students.

After two years at the district level supporting English Learner services, Juanita joined the Santa Barbara Unified School District. There, she took on the challenge of leading a struggling charter school and successfully transformed it into one of the district’s first Dual Language Immersion programs.

She worked closely with her teachers, staff and community to improve their instructional program, and successfully moved them out of program improvement.

After eight years, Juanita relocated to Oceanside to be closer to her family, concluding her distinguished career as principal of Reynolds Elementary School, Oceanside School District, where she continued her dedication to dual language education and worked diligently with the students and families of the school during the “covid years.”

Juanita was deeply committed to preserving the language and cultural heritage of Latino children. She was a strong advocate for dual language education, and served on the board of directors as a member of the Association of Two-Way & Dual Language Education (ATDLE), a nonprofit supporting dual language programs across the U.S. for more than 10 years.

Juanita lived a life of service in education, guided by purpose, principle, and quiet strength. A lifelong learner and teacher, she left a lasting legacy not only in the schools and districts she served, but in the hearts of all who knew her.

She was a woman of hope, with a deep sense of justice, unafraid to speak truth with conviction and compassion. She believed that emotion was not a weakness, but a reflection of what truly matters.

Her life, her work, and her love for others will be remembered always.

Juanita’s family will hold private services. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor her memory may consider making a donation in her name to World Central Kitchen (WCK) or ATDLE. She was deeply committed to the work and mission of both organizations.