Augustana Early Learning Center

Augustana Early Learning Center is an outreach ministry of Augustana Lutheran Church committed to quality care and development for each child. We welcome children of different races, genders, cultures, religions, national or ethnic origins, and handicaps. We offer reasonable tuition rates and a grant program in order to serve families from a variety of income levels.

Program Philosophy

Our philosophy involves offering a quality program within a developmentally appropriate framework. We believe that play is the primary vehicle through which young children learn. We offer a rich array of experiences and activities that are designed to foster self-discovery, autonomy, and freedom to learn and create within a secure environment. Activities are open-ended and non-competitive so that all children may experience success. We see the child as a whole, with needs in all developmental areas: physical, cognitive, social and emotional. We value the diversity that different children lend to our program and promote curriculum and activities that affirm children of any race, religion or culture.

Our Program Offers

Small class sizes

Qualified, professional teachers

Curriculum for total child development

An extended arts program

Nutritious foods

Well-equipped indoor and outdoor facilities

Ages and Hours of Operation

AELC accepts children from 18 months to school age. Our kindergarten and before- and after-school program picks up children from Palmer and Carson Elementary Schools.

The center is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. We operate year-round and are closed only for major holidays and one week in August each year.

Enrollment

Children are enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis, with preference given to siblings, church members, and full-time students. We generally have waiting lists.

Weekly Fees for 2007/2008 (full time)

18 months–2 ½ years: $180

2 ½–5 years: $160

Kindergarten/ECE: $150

Before- and After-school: $110

Summer Program:$170

The Center is located at 5000 E. Alameda Ave. and is under the direction of Paula Keller, Center Administrator, and Diane DeRose, Director. Call (303) 388-7012 for information.