The Early Learning Center (ELC) is getting ready to undergo an expansion of the infant room to meet the increasing demands of the community, according to ELC Director, Christy Clarkson. Some of the renovations to the space include a kids’ toilet, larger play space, and more baby beds along with an expanded entryway. Ultimately, the upgrade allows for more infants and more room for them to grow.
Operated as a full-day daycare center, the center was built with children in mind. They are grouped by age into separate rooms with age appropriate toys, tools, and health accommodations. Staff members are in charge of specific age groups to ensure consistency. Clarkson noted that, “since opening and enrolling at capacity, the school has already added 4 additional positions to meet current and future needs. The center currently employs 8 full time staff members and 1-2 High school aides.” Alicia Baize, Ashley Brooks, and Julie Reid are the current infant teachers at the center.
The current Infant Teacher team are looking forward to the additions. With this expansion, the center will be able to enroll up to 30 children—accommodating 8–10 more kids than before! Brooks noted that they “currently care for infants up to age 1, but this addition will let us care for them up to age 2” while still meeting state regulations.
Keeping proper ratios is fundamental to a prospering center. During the last year, the center reached capacity and had to close enrollment. Clarkson explains that, “the current state child to caregiver ratio limits potential enrollment. The increased space will allow us to increase enrollment and hire an additional teacher.” Baize is looking forward to the increased space because, “it will allow us to stay in ratio and open us up to keeping an eye on each child without restrictions.”
It is clear that the staff love what they do for the children. Baize commented that the “ELC is very family-based. It will be nice to add to the family.” Reid is equally as excited just to see the number increase. “I’m looking forward to having more babies. We’ll get to teach them and watch them learn, grow, and play.”
Since opening in 2024, the ELC has been able to serve the community in many ways providing childcare jobs, career exploration for high school students, childcare for district staff, and licensed care options—all while helping our little gorillas grow. This expansion is a major step in the right direction.