KILLEEN, Texas — Ira Cross Junior Elementary School in Killeen is among a small group of Killeen ISD campuses to earn an “A” rating from the Texas Education Agency this year, a distinction that highlights years of steady progress.

The rating is based on academic performance, student growth and closing achievement gaps. It marks the first time since 2020 the TEA has released its accountability grades.

Former principal Tomas Sias, who led Ira Cross for 11 years before becoming principal at Manor Middle School , said the success reflects the combined effort of students, staff and parents.

“They have to feel that they can accomplish anything,” Sias said. “It’s more about getting the students to want to come to school and want to learn. Teachers have to be motivated, too. The payoff

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