The ELC is relocating!
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The ELC is relocating! *
Milestones in Motion:
Our Expansion Story
In early 2026, the Early Learning Center will be moving to 90 Harvest Lane in Williston, Vermont—a building more than 2.5 times the size of our current home! This expansion is more than square footage. It’s a reflection of our deepening commitment to inclusive, neuroaffirming environments where children, families, and educators thrive.
Here’s a glimpse of what’s coming:
• 🎨 A dedicated art room to spark creativity
• 🌈 A sensory space designed for regulation and exploration
• 🤝 Private rooms for service providers and specialists
• 📚 A cozy library nook for quiet reading and connection
• ☕ A welcoming staff room to support reflective practice
• 🏡 A spacious community gathering area for events, celebrations, and shared learning
We’re building a place where curiosity, care, and community come alive.
Stay tuned for updates, sneak peeks, and ways to get involved as we prepare for this exciting next chapter!
Want to show off your support for the ELC? Pick up a long sleeve shirt now! Funds raised will go towards new signage Check it out here!
Tiny Kids, Big Futures - We Invite You to Join Our Dedicated Team!
Discover opportunities and joy in your everyday!
Email Jobs@elcvt.org with more questions
The Early Learning Center (ELC) is a non-profit early childhood education program created in partnership with families, educators, and members of the community. The Center is a fully licensed, developmentally oriented program located at Fort Ethan Allen in Colchester, providing high-quality child care and early education for 38 children ages 6 weeks through 5 years. At the Early Learning Center, children learn best through play in environments that honor their individuality and curiosity. Our culture is rooted in respect, kindness, and inclusion, with sensory-rich materials and opportunities for exploration woven into each day. Through play-based and developmentally appropriate practices, we nurture confident, empathetic learners who thrive in a community of belonging.
We are a S.E.E.D. certified school! All of our families have access to a free course on emotional development.
Click the logo to find out more about Seed & Sew!
Searching for care and hoping to join the ELC Family?
Fill out our Waitlist Inquiry Form and Hannah will connect with you.
November 2025: We are excitedly working towards moving to our new location in Williston! If you are interested in hearing about future availability for care or to hear more about our SPRING 2026 open house, please fill out the form above!
We will be in touch soon.
Philosophy
Our center is committed to providing the very best early childhood education experience for every child and family in our care.
We believe that each and every child is a unique individual who thrives in an environment where they feel safe and valued. Our center provides a secure base, which nurtures a sense of belonging for every child in our care.
We believe that children are competent learners from birth. Within the community, we value children’s natural curiosity and individual ideas and we facilitate children’s learning through a developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum.
We believe in equity and inclusion. Our center values diversity and celebrates individual differences, and we strive to create an environment that promotes tolerance and creates respectful relationships.
We believe in positive partnerships. We understand that parents are the first and most enduring educators of their children and we value the opportunity for meaningful collaboration. Our center welcomes the contribution and active participation of parents and families in our community.
We believe in the life-long value of high-quality early education. We understand that a strong foundation in the early years supports the development of resilience and enables every individual to achieve their fullest potential in life.
Mission
At the ELC, we are committed to providing high-quality, accessible early childhood education for children and families in our community. We offer an inclusive environment where every child is seen, valued and supported to grow at their own pace. Through strong relationships, responsive teaching and meaningful family partnerships, we nurture curiosity, build resilience and inspire a love of lifelong learning.
Vision
Our vision is to cultivate and create an early childhood community of connection and belonging. We strive to contribute to the development of a stronger, more equitable community in Vermont by creating an early foundation based on respect and kindness.
Values
Our Core Values fall into two major categories:
Collaborative Relationships
We are stewards of our world.
We work alongside families and partners.
We celebrate each child's journey as a learner, embracing their growth in every aspect.
Growth Mindset
We are curious about the world around us, thinking flexibly.
We find inspirations within our differences.
We view challenges as opportunities.
