Denton, TX - The Center for Young Children has stepped into its third year of a tradition that has quickly become one of its most joyful milestones: a graduation ceremony for the students preparing to enter kindergarten. What began in 2024 as a small celebration for 10 children surrounded by cheering families, friends and teachers, has already grown into a lively rite of passage. This year, 15 graduates walked the stage. A number that is expected to continue to rise as the center welcomes new students and the community around it expands. The ceremony has evolved into more than a send‑off; it’s a moment that captures the spirit of the CYC and the excitement of children standing on the edge of their next big adventure.

“I feel a deep sense of pride as our students reach this next milestone.” Sindhu Bhatia, Director of the Center for Young Children, said. “While it is hard to see them go, I know they are ready to spread their wings. It is an honor to be part of their childhood journey.”

In a tradition that highlights the heart of the Center for Young Children, this year’s graduation celebration began with parents and volunteers filling the building with decorations, treats, and an unmistakable sense of excitement. The halls were transformed into a colorful celebration space, complete with banners, balloons, and streamers crafted by a team of early‑morning helpers. As graduates crossed the bridge, they were met with cheers and waving pom‑poms from family members and UNT supporters. The festivities continued at the playground, where the community gathered for juice, cupcakes, and fresh fruit.

“The CYC graduation is a wonderful example of how a whole community comes together to celebrate our youngest UNT graduates.” Amy Via, Program Associate Director, said. “They created a magical space for our students to celebrate and be celebrated.”

Dr. Angie Cartwright, Interim Dean of the College of Education, attended the ceremony, personally greeting graduates and presenting diplomas as each student crossed the stage. Faculty members from the Department of Teacher Education and Administration, Dr. Michelle Salazar Perez and Dr. Leslie Jones, were also in attendance for the celebration and to extend their congratulations to the graduates. Together, their participation added to the sense of community and pride for the celebration, making the event especially meaningful.

The reflections shared by teachers reveal the heart of the program: the everyday moments in which children steadily grow into themselves. Woven through months of exploration and discovery, these experiences show how meaningful relationships and joyful play shape each child’s development. For Norelvis Jimenez, Program Project Specialist and Teacher, the most memorable moments are the ones where that growth unfolds naturally.

“What stands out most is seeing the children forge friendships, express themselves with greater confidence, and fully immerse themselves in play, a process that is intrinsically linked to natural and spontaneous learning,” she said as she looked back on the graduating class’s time at the CYC.

The University of North Texas Center for Young Children is an early childhood program within the College of Education. The CYC provides a research-based, high-quality preschool program and serves as a model to others in the DFW metroplex and the state. In addition to offering care and education for young children, the CYC also serves as a research center and training site for students in various College of Education programs. This work is done under the supervision of College of Education faculty and certified teachers and specialists and follows strict guidelines and procedures that protect children's rights, privacy and confidentiality.