A new space designed for calm, focus, and reflection officially launched at Santa Maria Elementary School this morning, as campus and district leaders celebrated the ribbon cutting of Blue Jay Haven, a space-themed sensory room created with students’ well-being in mind.
Blue Jay Haven invites students into a peaceful, imaginative environment inspired by the vastness of space, which offers a place to pause, reset, and prepare for learning. The room was intentionally designed to support emotional regulation and help students return to the classroom feeling grounded and ready to engage.
Principal Jose Perez expresses how Blue Jay Haven reflects the school’s ongoing commitment to creating meaningful supports for all learners. “At Santa Maria Elementary, we believe that student success is built on a foundation of support, consistency, and opportunity. The Blue Jay Haven Sensory Room reflects that belief and represents our ongoing efforts to create an environment where students are empowered to learn, grow, and thrive.”
District leadership echoed the importance of creating supportive learning environments. Raul Gomez, Laredo Independent School District Special Education Director, shared, “Blue Jay Haven provides students with a safe space to pause, reset, and refocus. At Laredo ISD, we recognize that student success looks different for every learner, and thoughtfully designed environments like this one help ensure students feel supported and ready to engage in learning.”
The open house offered guests a firsthand look at the sensory room in action, as students explored the ball pit, swing, hopscotch area, and interactive sensory walls that brought the space to life.
The project came to life through collaboration, creativity, and community support. Special recognition was given to McKinney Trailer Rentals for their sponsorship and for their contributions of time and resources to transform an idea into a welcoming, functional space for students.
Blue Jay Haven represents Santa Maria Elementary School’s continued focus on creating environments where students feel safe, supported, and ready to reach new heights. “This space is the result of teamwork, thoughtful planning, and a shared vision for our campus. It is one more way we continue to strengthen the systems that support students and ensure Santa Maria Elementary remains a place where every child is valued,” Perez said.