"A Passion for Early Learning"

Preschool Open to All

"My goal is to give back to our community the same excellent care and education my own two kids have received," says Amy Nelson, South Bend Public Schools former school counselor, and new Director for Early Learning.

Currently serving up to 100 students ages 3-4, the Early Learning Center (ELC) of South Bend Public Schools has been operating for 20+ years.  A staff of twenty Early Learning professionals care for and educate children from the South Bend community and beyond, reaching into Willapa Valley, Raymond, and Naselle School districts.
"We deliver a comprehensive program to 3 and 4 year olds consisting of language fundamentals, math & science, gross motor play, and social skill development," says Mrs. Nelson, who started officially as Director July 1.  In addition to these curricular components, South Bend ELC also provides wellness check-ups for dental and vision, as well as medical follow-ups.  "Our kids receive the whole package here in South Bend," she continues.  "We take special care in providing our kids a quality education, one that is well-rounded and meets their comprehensive needs."  "We also offer services to families to provide needed support and parent engagement opportunities."

 Tradition of Excellence

One of the first federally funded preschools in the state, South Bend's ELC is one of the most recognized programs in Washington.  "The ELC was started and built by Laurie May and Barbe Porter early on," notes Nelson.  "Those ladies were the pioneers and what you see today is a direct result of their and many others' hard work."

And hard work it is...

Offering both full day and part day sessions, the ELC offers full pre-school service with an added dual language Spanish component.  "Each classroom has a Spanish speaking adult who only speaks Spanish to the kids," she explains.  "All children are exposed to this and are learning both Spanish and English at the same time."  The ELC also offers full food service (free of charge) and provides transportation to and from school.

Passion

In talking with Amy, you will quickly learn her heart's desire, and that is to love all kids--a trait all staff at the ELC demonstrate daily. "Pre-k education and kindergarten readiness are so important," she says.  "Speaking of my own kids, I have seen how this program has impacted their success and growth."  "The staff here are truly amazing, and I want all kids in our community to have access to receive what I believe is an essential component of primary school readiness."

Not only does Amy oversee these "little's" early education, she and her staff also provide parent education, family support, and help manage the transition between her program and the elementary school just across the street at Chauncey Davis Elementary.  "Our curriculum is aligned to the elementary, and we help transition all students into kindergarten," she explains.  "Our students are ready when they leave our program."

Early Impact

As superintendent, I am thrilled that South Bend provides pre-school to our community children.  Investing in early learning indisputably helps ensure all children are prepared for primary school, and will have lasting impact on their lives---this is an investment we will continue to make in the South Bend School District.

Classes are filling up fast

My youngest daughter will be attending the preschool this fall, and I encourage all parents to take advantage of the exceptional opportunity we offer right here in South Bend.  As of early August, there are only about 10 slots left in the program.  Parents should not delay and register their kids in the next couple weeks.

As an educator and parent of three young daughters, I understand the importance of investing in early education.  Beyond sending your son or daughter to preschool, be sure to read to your children, spend quality time with them, and show interest in what they are doing, learning, and exploring.   The opportunity you have right now is one you will never have again.  Invest in your child's early education and expect future reward.  You won't find a better support for your preschool student than Amy Nelson and her caring staff at the South Bend Early Learning Center.

If you have questions about the Early Learning programs at South Bend Public Schools, please feel free to call us at 360.875.6041.