MISSION, TEXAS (Nov. 17, 2025) – Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) celebrated a major milestone today as the district officially expanded its innovative Crib-to-College early learning partnership to include seven new early learning centers.
During the ceremony, district leaders, Region One Education Service Center, and early learning centers gathered for a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing and a symbolic ribbon cutting. The event drew educators, community partners, and families together to highlight the growing momentum behind a program that is helping redefine early education in Mission.
EXPANDING THE CRIB-TO-COLLEGE PATHWAY
Originally launched in 2024, Crib-to-College provides a seamless pathway from early childcare settings to Mission CISD schools. Through this partnership, children enrolled at participating early learning centers are formally recognized as Mission CISD students.
Certified Texas PK teachers deliver the district’s PK-3 and PK-4 curriculum directly at the centers, so students receive high-quality instruction in a familiar environment.
As part of the ceremony, Mission CISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Cris Valdez emphasized the district’s continued commitment to expanding early learning opportunities for families across the community.
“The high-quality partnerships we are building today and into the future are essential to the continued success of the Mission community. Education is where it all begins, and it remains the great equalizer,” said Valdez. “I am deeply grateful for our partners, Region One, our cabinet, our executive leadership team, and our Board of Trustees. Their support inspires us every day to go out and make a difference for our children and our community."
A COMMITMENT TO EARLY CHILDHOOD SUCCESS
To support families and enhance early learning outcomes, the Crib-to-College initiative offers several key benefits:
- High quality PK education helps children transition smoothly and confidently into kindergarten.
- A seamless experience with consistent care throughout the school day as well as before and after school care programs.
- Convenient hours tailored for working families, providing full day care that fits their schedules.
- An aligned curriculum with local schools that ensures children are well prepared for their academic future.
The expansion introduces several new early childcare partners who have joined Mission CISD in strengthening opportunities for young learners across the community.
New Participating Early Childcare Facilities:
- Totally Kids Learning Center
- Valemis Bilingual Learning Center
- Kidz Crusade Childcare and Pre-K Academy
- Sharyland Lil Institute, LLC
- A+ Apple Tree Academy
- Shine Bright Academy
- Gingerbread House Learning Center Montessori
Representatives from Region One Education Service Center also spoke about the significance of this collaboration and the positive impact it will have on early learners throughout the region.
“This initiative, Crib to College, speaks for itself. It is our responsibility to help children begin a path that leads them to college, and that is exactly what we do,” said Roel Garza, Coordinator of Early Childhood Partnerships at Region One.
We believe every child deserves a strong start. These children may not be in our buildings today, but they will be in our buildings tomorrow, and we want them to arrive ready to thrive.”
The event reaffirmed Mission CISD’s continued investment in strong community partnerships and its commitment to ensuring every child begins their educational journey with the support, resources, and high-quality instruction they deserve.
To learn more about the Crib to College initiative, visit Mission CISD’s Crib to College Program.
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