What is the Early Learning Center?

The ELC houses our tuition-based preschool and the Bright Beginnings (formally known as Title I) program. DIAL testing helps us see which children could benefit from a little extra support. Through our Bright Beginnings program (formerly Title I), children identified through this process can attend preschool for free, gaining the skills and guidance they need to feel confident and ready for Kindergarten. These students are placed in our regular tuition-based classrooms, enjoying the same full preschool experience as all of our learners, without any cost to their families. Spots are limited, and families of identified children will be contacted by our Early Childhood office during the annual placement process.

The ELC also offers free tuition for families meeting income guidelines. Qualifying students are placed in our 5-day afternoon tuition-based classrooms, but parents do not pay the tuition. Spaces are limited and are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. The income guidelines are based on Missouri's Free and Reduced lunch program. To see if your child would be eligible, see the document below.

If you believe you would qualify and would like the opportunity to be placed tuition-free, please let us know during the enrollment process and view the income guidelines here.