Building Strong Partnerships with Families
As we wrap up 2025, we want to express our sincere gratitude for your continued support of our early learning programs. This year has been filled with growth, achievement, and meaningful milestones that reflect our shared commitment to high-quality early childhood education.
Celebrating Outstanding Educators
We are thrilled to announce that Khali Shaw has been named the 2025 TXAEYC Classroom Teacher of the Year. This prestigious award recognizes a classroom teacher who exemplifies passion for teaching young children and supporting families through developmentally appropriate practice. Recipients demonstrate excellence in teaching, creative family engagement, impactful classroom projects, and mentorship of peers—all while upholding the values of inclusion, equity, and ongoing professional growth. Congratulations, Khali, on this well-deserved honor!
Texas A&M Children’s Centers
Executive Director
Program Excellence Recognized
We also celebrate Becky Gates Children’s Center, which earned accreditation from Cognia with the highest status of Accredited with Distinction! BGCC has been recognized for their steadfast commitment to providing high-quality education for every one of their students and promise to continue improving for them. This distinction highlights the center’s dedication to continuous improvement and to providing high-quality learning environments for young children.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we move into the new year, both of our early learning programs have completed National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) training and are preparing for Recognition Status submission. NAEYC’s new three-tier accreditation model includes Recognition, Accreditation, and Accreditation Plus, reflecting progressive levels of quality and commitment.
In addition, both programs are awaiting their Texas Rising Star (TRS) certification assessments. TRS is a quality rating and improvement system that recognizes child care programs exceeding the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) minimum standards. Programs earning TRS certification demonstrate excellence in promoting children’s physical, social-emotional, and cognitive development—ensuring that every child receives the best possible start.
Thank you for being part of our community and for supporting the educators and programs shaping the future of early learning. We look forward to an inspiring and impactful 2026!