The Laredo Independent School District, in partnership with the International Bank of Commerce, proudly unveiled the "Wildcatville" Minitropolis at Anita T. Dovalina Elementary School. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official launch of this innovative program that combines education, creativity, and real-world skills in an extraordinary learning environment.
"Wildcatville" is a groundbreaking educational initiative designed to immerse students in a fully operational, simulated community. The program teaches essential life skills, including financial literacy, teamwork, and leadership, by allowing students to take on roles in government, business, and civic organizations. With a bank, post office, and other key components of a real-world city, Wildcatville provides students with opportunities to engage in activities that prepare them for future success.
“This event was a testament to the power of imagination and collaboration. Our IBC Minitropolis is not just a place, but a vision—a miniature city where every building, every street, and every character is a product of collective effort and boundless imagination,” said Jamie Vargas, Principal of Dovalina Elementary School. “Wildcatville is a place where communities are formed, finance lessons are learned, friendships are made, and fun never stops. It's a city that grows with each new idea, and every moment here brings a fresh opportunity to be part of something bigger.”
IBC plays a pivotal role in this initiative, helping students understand the importance of financial responsibility. Participants earn “Wildcatville Cash” or debit cards by performing jobs within the city or demonstrating model citizenship. Alexander Chavana, the IBC President of Wildcatville, explained, “We are here to serve our community. We partner with our city council and always start the year by giving all the school citizens the opportunity to earn Wildcatville Cash or debit cards. They earn these by being school citizens who work on assigned jobs and by being model citizens. Remember to follow me to IBC!”
Mayor Marco Renteria, representing Wildcatville’s leadership, spoke at the event about the importance of unity and teamwork. “Our community is all about having everyone come together to be part of something important. No one in our community is ever left out because we believe that teaming up together will allow us to be a much more productive community.”
During the ceremony, attendees, including parents, community leaders, and LISD administrators, were invited to tour Wildcatville. Guests watched students bring the Minitropolis to life by participating in roles such as bankers, government officials, and business owners, demonstrating the program’s real-world applications.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection, City of Laredo Councilmembers Vanessa Perez, and Melissa Cigarroa, Popeye’s Restaurant, Laredo Chamber of Commerce Director Monica Martinez, and LISD Board of Trustees Vice President Goyo Lopez and LISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sylvia G. Rios provided inspiring words of support for the project and the Dovalina Elementary School students and staff.
“This is an extraordinary milestone for our district,” said Dr. Rios. “Wildcatville showcases how education can transform lives by bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world experiences. We’re thrilled to see the impact this program will have on our students and their future.”
LISD thanks IBC Bank, community members, and all stakeholders who made the launch of Wildcatville possible. The ceremony was just the beginning of what promises to be an inspiring journey for students, educators, and the community.