Douglas the Dragon from our Literacy Center has made new friends this week by visiting Mrs. Zimmer-Clark’s classroom. Her students have demonstrated exceptional manners and active participation in book discussions at the Literacy Center. Douglas will remain with the class for a week to observe the remarkable activities taking place in their daily routine.
The week of September 22, 2025, Becky Henrich chose Fred Bunnell for the “Paws”itive Pathfinder Award. It is with immense gratitude and admiration that we present the "Paws"itive Pathfinder Award to Fred Bunnell. Fred has a heart full of compassion for our little ones, always displaying patience and kindness toward every student and staff member. He has a remarkable ability to listen and truly hear each child, even when their needs go unspoken. Whether it’s comforting a student or calmly guiding them through an emotional moment, Fred’s presence is a source of reassurance and stability. To the children, he feels like family—someone they can trust, no matter the circumstances. His dedication to nurturing the social and emotional growth of our students is evident in everything he does, and it’s clear that he loves both his job and the children he serves. Fred is an incredible blessing to our campus, and we are excited to see how much our students will continue to flourish under his guidance this year.
The week of September 22, 2025, Krystal Johnson chose Becki Cooper for the Tireless Teacher Award. It is with great admiration and respect that we award Becki Cooper the Tireless Teacher Award for her unwavering dedication and compassion toward her students. Becki consistently goes above and beyond, often staying late after school to provide additional academic support and ensure that every student has the resources they need to thrive. Her commitment to their success is evident not just in her hours, but in the genuine care she shows for each individual student’s growth and well-being. Becki's influence extends beyond the classroom, creating an environment where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their fullest potential. Her tireless efforts are truly making a lasting, positive impact on their learning journeys.
Students in Mrs. Anderson's class were recently delighted in the beauty of the outdoors while engaging in bubble play. Their activity not only provided enjoyment but also offered an excellent opportunity for exercise as they enthusiastically chased the bubbles.
In Ms. Hunt and Mrs. Collier's class, we dedicated Science Friday to investigating our sense of taste. By employing our five senses, we examined diverse foods, identifying variations in their spicy, sweet, salty, and crunchy properties. Our Science Friday exploration of the senses was truly enlightening.
It’s Bulldawg Homecoming 2025, and we at Mae Stevens Early Learning Academy are ardently supporting our team in tonight's game. Students and staff proudly donned their blue and gold attire. Let’s go, Dawgs!
Douglas serves as our school's traveling library dragon. Each week, a class is selected based on their exemplary library manners and active participation in book discussions. Douglas arrives at the chosen classroom on Thursdays and is collected the following Wednesday afternoon to prepare for the next class visit. Teachers are encouraged to document Douglas's adventures throughout the week with photographs, which will be displayed on the Dragon Readers of the Week bulletin board. Having Douglas in the classroom instills a sense of responsibility in students as they guide him in navigating the Pre-K environment.
The Parent Advisory Council convened for the first time this school year, and we are fortunate to have such an exceptional group of parents and families. During our meeting, we discussed the Campus Policy and Compact, along with various other agenda items. Thank you to all who attended; it appears to be a promising year for our campus P.A.C.
If you were unable to attend the meeting, please reach out to Sandra Ziehlke, Parent & Community Outreach Coordinator, at 254-547-8289 or email ziehlkes@ccisd.com to schedule an appointment and we will ensure you are updated on the relevant information.
If you were unable to attend the meeting, please reach out to Sandra Ziehlke, Parent & Community Outreach Coordinator, at 254-547-8289 or email ziehlkes@ccisd.com to schedule an appointment and we will ensure you are updated on the relevant information.
This week's color is yellow, and we experienced rays of sunshine illuminating the campus. Here are a few moments we captured today.
Today in gym class with Coach Crawford, Mrs. Petet's students participated in a game called Fitness Ball. Coach provided instructions on the gameplay, which involves tagging opponents; once a student is tagged, they must proceed to the safe zone, perform five jumping jacks, and then return to the game. The students are benefiting from a vigorous workout during physical education.
At Mae Stevens Early Learning Academy, we are proudly celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. Today, we are embracing the rich culture through the vibrant clothing that symbolizes the Hispanic heritage.
The week of September 15, 2025, Sherry Amagliani chose Becky Henrich for the “Paws”itive Pathfinder Award. We are honored to present Becky Henrich with the Pawsitive Pathfinder Award for being an all-around wonderful person and an incredible example of what it means to care for students each and every day. From morning drop-off to bus time, Becky greets everyone with a smile and kind words that brighten the day for both students and adults alike. She has the patience of a saint and a heart for children that shines through in everything she does. Becky is exactly the kind of person every parent would want teaching their students—compassionate, patient, and endlessly positive.
The week of September 15, 2025, Nancy Zimmer-Clark chose Krystal Johnson for the Tireless Teacher Award. We are proud to present Krystal Johnson with the Tireless Teacher Award for her unwavering dedication and constant willingness to help, no matter the situation. Krystal has a rare gift of truly listening, making everyone around her feel valued and understood. Her caring nature, combined with her ability to quickly and effectively get things done, sets her apart as someone who consistently makes a positive difference. Each day, she shows what it means to be a tireless teacher—supportive, dependable, and deeply committed to the success and well-being of others.
Today, we had the pleasure of hosting a Meet & Greet featuring Counselor Juana Botello and Parent & Community Outreach Coordinator Sandra Ziehlke. Mrs. Botello outlined her goals and expectations for the upcoming school year, while Mrs. Ziehlke conducted a Volunteer Orientation, highlighting the various committees available on campus, including the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO). We extend our gratitude to all the parents who attended, and we look forward to a successful year at Mae Stevens Early Learning Academy.
Today in Mrs. Collier’s and Ms. Hunt’s class, students engaged in a science experiment utilizing their most essential scientific tool: their eyes. They observed the phenomenon known as “walking water,” where colored water traveled up paper towels. This experiment illustrates capillary action, demonstrating how water can move from one container to another through the paper towels, seemingly defying gravity and resulting in a vibrant display of colors.
Each month, we conduct practice fire drills in which students pause their activities, line up in an orderly manner, and are escorted by their teacher to a designated outdoor area. In the initial weeks of the school year, students participated in practice drills to familiarize themselves with the proper procedures in the event of an actual emergency. These practice sessions are essential for ensuring that students are prepared and know how to respond effectively should a real situation arise.
Today at Mae Stevens Early Learning Academy, we commemorated Patriot's Day with a lively parade. Many students proudly displaying their red, white, and blue attire while marching down the hallways waving their American flags and listening to patriotic music. This event celebrated the significance of the day, a day we will all remember.
Today, Ms. Aponte's students convene to the carpet for their daily social-emotional lesson. The class begins with a daily review of their classroom commitments, then focusing on the importance of "paying attention" and "raising our hands" during their instruction/circle time.
Recently, in Ms. Hunt's and Mrs. Collier's class, students conducted their first science experiment. They observed how washing their hands effectively removes germs. Since germs can cause illness, practicing proper handwashing and covering our mouths are essential measures to prevent the spread of these invisible pathogens.
Today, our Child Nutrition Department hosted a "Lunch with Your Grandchild" event, where grandparents gathered to enjoy quality time with their grandchildren. Whether they opted for a purchased lunch tray or brought a special meal from home, all participants appeared to have a wonderful time.
