School proposed as nature-based early learning program

(Seguin) — The Seguin ISD Board of Trustees is set to consider tonight what district officials say could be a new exciting early childhood education initiative.

Trustees will review a proposed partnership pilot between Seguin ISD and the Will Smith Zoo School (WSZS), an innovative early learning program operated by the San Antonio Zoo.

If approved, the partnership would establish a nature-based pre-kindergarten program at the district’s Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center (ILOLC), along with co-enrollment opportunities for Seguin ISD students at the WSZS campus in San Antonio.

The pilot program aims to expand early childhood education options for local families while leveraging the unique outdoor and nature-based curriculum that the Zoo School is known for.

Officials say the program will enhance community access to outdoor learning, provide an entry point into the district for non-traditional learners, and open new avenues for funding through a public-private partnership model.

According to the proposal, the district would provide classroom space at the ILOLC, while WSZS would staff and operate the program. Up to 40 students could be served at the Seguin site.

A separate group of Seguin students would be eligible for co-enrollment at the San Antonio campus.

If approved, the program could potentially see its first students this August.

The meeting begins at 6 p.m. in the Seguin ISD Administration Building located at 1221 E. Kingsbury St.