Laking Harris
Embracing Texarkana's Pre-K Innovation: A Glimpse into the Future
Introduction (Texarkana Pre-K Innovation):
Texarkana, Texas, a city with a rich history and a commitment to educational excellence, is about to embark on an exciting journey to enhance its early education offerings. In November of 2022, the Texarkana Texas Independent School District (TISD) received resounding support from its community as voters approved a substantial bond proposal aimed at transforming the educational landscape within the district. Among the many improvements envisioned, one stands out for its groundbreaking nature - the creation of a state-of-the-art pre-kindergarten center that promises to redefine how young learners begin their educational journey.
The Vision for Early Education:
Nestled in the heart of Texarkana, the Paul Laurence Dunbar Early Education Center has been a cornerstone of pre-k education within TISD for over a decade. With an enrollment of fewer than 300 students, this institution has played a vital role in preparing young minds for the challenges of school and life. However, with the passage of the 2022 bond proposal, a new era for early education is dawning.
Innovative Learning Environment:
Under the visionary leadership of TISD Superintendent Doug Brubaker, the future of early education is set to take a remarkable turn. The upcoming pre-k center promises an environment that's not just immersive, but interactive, akin to a children's museum rather than a traditional classroom. Superintendent Brubaker envisions a space where learning transcends the confines of textbooks, encouraging young students to explore, question, and engage with the world around them.
Impacting Success:
The significance of this groundbreaking initiative cannot be overstated. By accommodating both 3 and 4-year-old students, the pre-k center represents a significant expansion of educational opportunities for Texarkana's youngest residents. Superintendent Brubaker firmly believes that providing an additional year of early education will empower students to be better prepared for kindergarten and beyond. The potential for long-term academic success and personal growth is immense, fueling the excitement surrounding this transformative endeavor.
Honoring Legacy and Tradition:
The location chosen for this pioneering pre-k center holds deep significance. Situated on Carroll Street adjacent to Texarkana College, the new facility remains conveniently accessible to families across the district. What's more, the center's name - the Paul Laurence Dunbar Early Education Center - continues to pay homage to its historical roots. The Dunbar name, steeped in community history, will live on as a testament to the legacy of excellence that generations have come to expect from early education in Texarkana.
Anticipating the Future:
As Texarkana looks forward to 2025, Texarkana Pre-K Innovation, a tangible sense of anticipation fills the air. With an estimated cost of approximately $48 million, the construction of the pre-k center is an investment in the community's future. Beyond the bricks and mortar, it symbolizes Texarkana's commitment to nurturing young minds, fostering a love for learning, and creating a generation of thinkers, dreamers, and achievers.

Conclusion:
In the heart of Texarkana, a new chapter in early education is set to unfold. With the Paul Laurence Dunbar Early Education Center as its beacon, the city is poised to lead the way in innovative, immersive, and interactive pre-k education. As the calendar inches closer to 2025, excitement builds, and the community stands united in its anticipation of the transformative impact this state-of-the-art pre-k center will have on its youngest learners, their families, and the future of education in Texarkana.