Mendoza Legacy Park Ribbon Cutting Honors the Lives of Daniela and Sofia Mendoza

On Friday, March 14, 2025, Cox Elementary held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Mendoza Legacy Park, a space dedicated to honoring the lives and legacy of Daniela and Sofia Mendoza. The sisters, beloved former Cox Elementary students, were tragically taken in the May 2023 Allen Premium Outlets shooting.

Located near the front of the school, Mendoza Legacy Park offers a peaceful space for remembrance and reflection. It features butterfly benches, a bird feeder named "Dani's Birdhouse," and a Free Little Library, registered as "Sofia’s Library" (Charter #194186). The library is now part of a global network, inviting visitors from near and far to share in the joy of reading.

Open to the public during non-school hours and on weekends, the park serves as a place of connection and inspiration. It is designed to cultivate love, kindness, friendship, and a sense of community in all who visit, honoring the lasting impact Daniela and Sofia had on their school and all those whose lives they touched.

At the private dedication ceremony, Principal Krista Wilson welcomed guests, including the Mendoza family members, Cox staff, Harrison sixth-grade students, Cox fourth-grade students, Wylie ISD Board of Trustees and leadership, representatives from the City of Sachse and the Sachse Chamber of Commerce, and park donors.

Cox Elementary teacher Stephanie Green provided attendees with background on the park’s creation before Sachse City Councilwoman Lindsay Buhler presented a proclamation on behalf of Mayor Jeff Bickerstaff and the City of Sachse, officially recognizing Mendoza Legacy Park.

The event concluded with a ceremonial ribbon cutting, marking the official opening of the space. Attendees were then invited to explore the park and take in its thoughtful design. As a special tribute, every Cox student and the Harrison sixth-grade students in attendance selected a book to keep, a continuation of the large book drive held last school year in the sisters' honor.

The creation of this special space was made possible through the generosity of donors, including Tom Thumb Albertsons Corporation, Toyota of Richardson, Toyota Philanthropy, Sachse Walmart and sister stores, Smiley Brite Orthodontics, and many anonymous donors. PBK Architects and Pogue Construction worked alongside Cox Elementary for over a year to design and develop the park.

Those who wish to honor the sisters’ memory further can contribute to The Daniela and Sofia Mendoza Memorial Scholarship Endowment, which supports students in their pursuit of education and excellence. Donations can be made online.