About the Early Learning Community

We strive to provide the highest quality educational environment to facilitate experiential learning. This will be accomplished by sustaining a learning community whose primary function is to nurture the developmental needs of a diverse group of young children. This community supports the educational needs of students of all ages, educators and practicing professionals in a manner that balances learning, research and community outreach.

Our Educational Philosophy

The Early Learning Community is a learning environment organized around the principles of inclusion, active experiential learning and best pedagogical practice.

We believe that children learn best in a place where they feel good about themselves, where they are allowed to explore their world, and where the learning materials match their interests and needs. Our learning environment is supported by teachers who recognize developmental norms, respect individual differences, and inspire a sense of wonder and a desire to learn. It is our goal to foster collaboration between students, teachers and families as a means of supporting all aspects of children’s development.

Our Goals

Our goal is to nurture growth in each child.

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ELC Teachers

Early Learning Community teachers and school administration.

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History of the School

Consistent with the mission of the College of Education and spirit of the founding of Pacific University, the Early Learning Community embraces its role as the true entry-level learning community on campus, once again guiding children toward lifelong learning.

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Teacher Preparation

Teaching, Learning & Research are interwoven and ongoing at the Early Learning Community. As a model early childhood teaching and learning environment essential to the teacher preparation programs in the College of Education, the ELC serves as a site for field experiences and student teaching.

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