Central Texas College Child Development Center Celebrates New Playgrounds and Pre-K Graduates

KILLEEN, TEXAS (May 22, 2025) —Central Texas College (CTC) Child Development Center and Lab School marked a major milestone today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for two new playgrounds—culminating two years of planning and investment in early childhood learning spaces. The event also honored five young scholars who graduated from the program and will enter kindergarten this fall.

Director of the Child Development Center Maria Lewis addressed families, staff, and community members during the ceremony.

“This ribbon cutting ceremony is the result of two years of planning and hard work,” Lewis said. These playgrounds reflect our commitment to providing safe, stimulating spaces that support healthy development.”

The $174,000 project was made possible through a grant from the Child Care Relief Fund, the State of Texas, and Workforce Solutions of Central Texas. The funding supported the purchase and installation of two play structures—the Cub Playground and King Kong structure—as well as key improvements across the facility’s outdoor areas.

Enhancements include:

• Relocating the Pre-K playground to the south side of the building
• Installing new fencing for added privacy and security
• Adding cushioned flooring beneath the equipment for safety
• Installing outdoor musical instruments
• Adding an ADA-accessible swing for inclusive play

The center also celebrated its young scholars who will enroll in public school next year. Parents praised the positive impact the center has had on their children. Sarah Hess, a parent of two students at the center, shared her daughter’s transformation over the past year.

“When Gwendolyn started, she was so shy. She barely spoke,” said Hess. “She started as a 3-year-old and ever since, she has come to life. She is confident and smart. She loves reading and knows all of her letters now. She is excited and ready to start kindergarten.”

The Child Development Center and Lab School serves as both a nurturing environment for young children of students who are enrolled at CTC or CTC staff. The center serves as a training ground for future educators to provide hands-on experience working with children. With the addition of these modern playgrounds, CTC continues to invest in high-quality early learning experiences that prepare children for success in school and life.