Harlingen CISD is proud to announce that 11 elementary campuses have been named Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase Schools for the 2024–2025 school year!
This exciting recognition highlights schools that go above and beyond to create positive, caring, and welcoming environments where students feel connected and supported. The distinction is part of the Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) program, which focuses on building strong relationships between students and staff to help students feel safe, valued, and ready to learn.
“Being named a Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase School is a tremendous honor that reflects the heart, dedication, and hard work of our teachers, administrators, and staff,” said Sylvia Gamboa, Director of Guidance and Counseling. “I am so proud of what our campuses have accomplished. This recognition is a testament to the strong, student-centered cultures we’ve built.”
The CKH program began at HCISD in 2022 thanks to a generous three-year grant from the Valley Baptist Legacy Foundation. Since then, it has continued to grow and make a difference in schools across the district. Teachers and staff are trained in simple but powerful strategies, like greeting students by name at the door, creating classroom agreements, and helping students take responsibility for their actions.
This year’s 11 Showcase Schools include a mix of first-time and returning honorees:
- Austin Elementary IB World School
- Dishman Elementary (recognized for the second year in a row)
- Dr. Rodriguez Elementary STEM Academy
- Lamar Elementary Dual Language Academy (second year in a row)
- Lee Means Elementary Fine Arts Academy
- Long Elementary (second year in a row)
- Sam Houston Elementary IB World School (second year in a row)
- Stuart Place Elementary
- Travis Elementary STEM Academy (second year in a row)
- Treasure Hills Elementary
- Wilson Elementary Dual Language Academy (second year in a row)
Schools are chosen annually through a rigorous selection process that involves measuring key performance indicators, gathering campus data, and surveying staff and students. Award-winning campuses demonstrate exceptional performance and foster a positive culture and climate for learning.
Harlingen CISD is incredibly proud of these campuses for their commitment to excellence in building positive relationships and creating welcoming, supportive environments for every student.
Below are photos from the May 13, 2025 Board Meeting, where campuses were recognized as Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase Schools.
About The Valley Baptist Legacy Foundation:
The Legacy Foundation invests in and serves as a catalyst for ideas, partnerships, medical education, research and programs that improve the health and quality of life in the Rio Grande Valley. The Foundation defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being. To learn more, visit http://www.vblf.org
About Capturing Kids’ Hearts:
Capturing Kids’ Hearts is the premier source of professional development for educators nationwide. Through experiential training, expert coaching, a character-based curriculum for students, and personalized support Capturing Kids’ Hearts equips professionals in K-12 education to implement a transformational process focused on fostering student connectedness and growing a relationship-driven culture. To learn more, visit: https://www.capturingkidshearts.org
