Pecos-Barstow-Toyah ISD is proud to announce it has been named a Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase® District, a distinction awarded to a select group of districts across the nation. PBTISD is one of only 85 districts in the United States to receive this honor, marking a significant milestone in the district’s ongoing commitment to building strong student-centered campus cultures.
This recognition comes as all campuses across PBTISD have earned the Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase® Schools designation. Campuses receiving this honor include Austin Elementary, Zavala Elementary, Crockett Middle School, and Pecos High School, reflecting a unified, districtwide implementation of the Capturing Kids’ Hearts® Process. This year marks the third recognition for Crockett MS, the second for Austin and Zavala Elementary, and the first for Pecos HS.
The National Showcase® Schools award is based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes performance indicators, campus data, and feedback from parents, students, and staff. Schools are recognized for their ability to create safe, supportive learning environments where students are connected, engaged, and motivated to succeed.
“This is a proud moment for Pecos-Barstow-Toyah ISD,” said Superintendent Brent Jaco. “To be named a National Showcase District, and to have every campus recognized as a National Showcase School, speaks to the intentional work taking place across our district. We made a commitment to creating safe, supportive, and relationship-driven environments for our students, and this recognition affirms that work. Our teachers, administrators, and staff have embraced this process, and it is making a meaningful difference for our students each day.”
PBTISD began its Capturing Kids’ Hearts journey four years ago, implementing the framework districtwide to strengthen relationships, improve campus culture, and support both academic and social-emotional growth. The process emphasizes building trust through consistent relationship-building strategies, clear expectations, and meaningful student engagement.
Since adopting Capturing Kids’ Hearts®, PBTISD has focused on equipping staff with tools to foster positive classroom environments where students feel valued and supported. From daily relationship-building routines to a shared commitment to accountability and respect, the district has worked to ensure that every student experiences a sense of belonging on campus.
“This recognition reflects years of dedication and a shared vision across our district,” Jaco said. “Our goal has always been to create schools where students feel safe, connected, and empowered to succeed. This honor belongs to every staff member who has committed to building those relationships and creating those environments.”
Capturing Kids’ Hearts® is a research-based process designed to improve school culture and student outcomes by focusing on relationships and engagement. Schools and districts recognized as National Showcase recipients demonstrate excellence in implementing the program with fidelity and achieving measurable impact.
To learn more about Capturing Kids’ Hearts®, visit capturingkidshearts.org