The journey from a first hug to becoming a high achiever reflects the experience of students as they begin their education in Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District. The district is at the forefront of early childhood education, opening avenues of possibilities for every child that enters through the doors of its eight elementary schools.
That journey was highlighted January 20, 2026, when Texas Governor Greg Abbott visited Sippel Elementary School to announce the Task Force on the Governance of Early Childhood Education and Care. He was joined by State Senator Donna Campbell, State Representative Alan Schoolcraft and other state and community leaders.
Superintendent Paige Meloni emphasized that SCUC’s approach to early learning is rooted in relationships and high expectations.
“SCUC is proud of its full-day PreK program and the outcomes we see for our students and families," Meloni said. “Nearly 40% of our families are military-connected, and we are proud to support them–and all of our students–from start to finish.”
“I see the benefits of it at home,” said McKenny. “After my son went to Pre-K, he already knew pretty much everything taught in kindergarten. I think the program gives children a leg up. They already know classroom structure and rules, numbers, the alphabet and how to write their name—all the things you would expect a kindergartener to learn.”
Early learning begins with connection. Pre‑K and Kindergarten students are greeted every day by teachers who create nurturing, play‑based environments while intentionally building foundational academic and social-emotional skills. These moments—whether a morning hug, guided play, or small‑group learning—form the backbone of a program designed to foster curiosity and confidence from the very beginning of a child’s educational journey.
Community partnerships further enrich the experience. Weekly virtual read-aloud with residents from Autumn Winds Living and Rehabilitation Center create meaningful connections across generations and reinforce a shared investment in student success.
“I was able to witness that firsthand and see that experience,” said Heather Camilio, Early Childhood Specialist for SCUC. “Not only are our children loving that experience and gaining from that - the residents are really enjoying that. One of the residents shared that she feels she has purpose again.”
SCUC’s Early Childhood program is comprehensive and built on high standards of instructional quality, including:
An 11:1 student-to-adult ratio that supports more individualized attention
Dual-certified Pre-K teachers in both general and special education
Ongoing professional learning focused on instructional consistency and social-emotional development
“Our program is growing,” said Camilio. “Our Pre-K programs have increased by 50 kids this year. We want every child in the community that is eligible for Pre-K to join us and begin their educational journey here in SCUC.”
From safe, joyful classrooms to exceptional instruction supported by well‑trained educators, SCUC ISD remains committed to giving every child a strong start. As conversations continue at the state level about early childhood education, SCUC is proud to share the lived experience of its students–one that begins with care and connection and grows into confidence, achievement, and opportunity.