More than 20 Killeen ISD campuses have been named Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase Schools for the 2025–2026 school year, a recognition that reflects something you can feel the moment you walk into these schools: strong relationships, positive culture, and students who know they belong.
The designation places these campuses among a select group of schools nationwide recognized for creating environments where students feel safe, connected, and positioned to succeed.
“This recognition reflects what our students experience every day,” said Superintendent Dr. King Davis. “They’re greeted, they’re known, and they understand what’s expected. That comes from adults being consistent and intentional in how they show up. When that’s in place, it changes how students learn and how they see themselves. I’m proud of our staff for doing that work the right way.”
Capturing Kids’ Hearts is a relationship-centered approach that focuses on simple, consistent practices that make a difference, from welcoming students at the door to setting shared expectations and helping students take ownership of their choices.
Across Killeen ISD, that work is showing up in real ways. Students feel more connected. Classrooms feel more focused. And campuses are building cultures where respect and accountability go hand in hand.
This year’s recognized campuses include:
Cedar Valley Elementary
Clear Creek Elementary
Clifton Park Elementary
Dr. Joseph A. Fowler Elementary
Harker Heights Elementary
Haynes Elementary
Iduma Elementary
Live Oak Ridge Middle School
Maude Moore Wood Elementary
Mountain View Elementary
Nolanville Elementary
Oveta Culp Hobby Elementary
Pathways Academic Campus
Peebles Elementary
Pershing Park Elementary
Rancier Middle School
Reeces Creek Elementary
Richard E. Cavazos Elementary
Saegert Elementary
Skipcha Elementary
Timber Ridge Elementary
Trimmier Elementary
Venable Village Elementary
This recognition reflects a broader shift across Killeen ISD to be more intentional about how schools build culture and support students.
That focus is showing up in classrooms and hallways across the district — in the way students are greeted, in the consistency of expectations, and in the relationships being built every day. It’s work that is ongoing, and it’s moving campuses forward together.