La Joya, TX - La Joya ISD is reaffirming its unwavering commitment to early childhood education following an update regarding its long-standing partnership with Hidalgo County Head Start, ensuring families that Pre-K services will continue without interruption across the district.
The partnership is set to conclude effective June 30, 2026, following Hidalgo County Head Start’s decision to end its memorandum of understanding with La Joya ISD. The district was formally notified of this change on April 2, 2026.
District leaders emphasized that while the partnership is ending, the district’s ability to serve Pre-K students remains strong and fully intact. La Joya ISD will continue to provide comprehensive early childhood education through its established programs at campuses across the district.
“The most important message for our families is that Pre-K opportunities are not going away,” said Dr. Derek Little, Chief of Academics & School Leadership. “Our district is fully prepared and staffed to continue serving every Pre-K student with high-quality instruction, experienced educators, and the strong academic foundation our youngest learners deserve.”
Families can expect no disruption in services. La Joya ISD will continue offering full-day Pre-K programs led by certified teachers and instructional aides, supported by a strong two-way dual language model and high-quality instructional materials designed to meet the needs of early learners.
District data indicates a shift in enrollment trends at partnership sites, with student numbers decreasing from 544 during the 2024–2025 school year to 503 in 2025–2026. This decline reflects a reduced need for a dual-service model and further supports the district’s readiness to independently serve all Pre-K students moving forward.
To ensure a smooth and seamless transition, La Joya ISD has implemented a phased communication and support plan that began in April. This plan includes districtwide notifications, campus-based parent meetings, and individualized support sessions to assist families with enrollment and ensure every child remains connected to a high-quality early learning environment.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that every child in our district has access to a strong start in their educational journey,” said Dr. Marcey Sorensen, Superintendent of Schools. “As this partnership concludes, our commitment to our families remains unchanged. La Joya ISD is fully equipped to continue serving our Pre-K students with high-quality instruction, experienced educators, and the support needed to help our youngest learners succeed. We will continue to do everything possible to provide the very best educational foundation for each and every child we serve.”
La Joya ISD is reassuring current and future families that all Pre-K programs will remain active, fully funded, and accessible at campuses throughout the district. Services previously available through the partnership will continue seamlessly through the district’s early childhood programs.
For more information about La Joya ISD’s early childhood offerings or assistance with enrollment, families are encouraged to visit www.lajoyaisd.com or contact their local campus.