By Wendy Sledd
Special to the Leader-Press
A sea of red, white and blue filled the Central Texas College campus as children, parents, educators and staff gathered for the Child Development Center’s annual Patriotic Parade, celebrating America’s 250th birthday with smiles, music and family memories.
The festive tradition brought together CTC’s youngest Eagles, who proudly rolled through campus waving flags and showing off patriotic outfits. Decorated tricycles, wagons and sparkling strollers rolled along the parade route as families, faculty, and staff cheered on the children and joined in the celebration of the nation’s semi-quincentennial.
While the event highlighted patriotic pride, it also showcased the important role the Child Development Center plays on campus. The center serves young children and their families while also functioning as a laboratory school for future educators pursuing degrees in education at CTC. Through hands-on experience in an early childhood setting, students preparing for careers in teaching gain valuable practical skills as they work alongside experienced professionals.
“The parade is always a special opportunity for our children to experience community, joy and pride,” said Janeen Garza, Director of the CTC Child Development Center and U.S. Army veteran. “It’s a chance for families, children and future educators to celebrate and learn together.”
Among those enjoying the festivities was Luis Pomales-Lozada, who attended with his wife and two daughters. While proud of his service as a Fort Hood soldier assigned to the 15th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Pomales-Lozada said the day was most meaningful because it allowed him to spend quality time with his family.
“I’m glad to be here and enjoy this day with my family,” he said. “I’m enjoying every activity they do. I’m trying to be present.”
He explained that military responsibilities often require time away from home for training and missions, making family events especially meaningful.
“Many times, I’m doing missions, doing some training and being away from my family,” he said. “I’m trying to spend as much time as possible and make memories with the kids. So, I like this parade very much.”
Pomales-Lozada said celebrating Independence Day and America’s 250th birthday was an honor, both as a parent and as someone who believes deeply in the nation’s values of freedom and opportunity.
For the children, however, the day was all about excitement, flags and fun. Garza said that the parade serves as a reminder that America’s milestone birthday is best celebrated through community, family connections and the shared experiences that create lasting memories.
“By the end of the parade, our youngest Eagles did more than roll by on their wagons and bikes,” Garza said. “They helped unite generations in a joyful celebration of country, learning and togetherness.”
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