Letter from the Principal

Dear families,

Welcome to the 2026-2027 School Year at the Early Childhood Center (the ECC for short), home of the Tiny Tomcats!

 

Whether you are a returning family or this is your family’s first school experience, we are honored that you are starting your child’s school journey with us and joining our preschool learning community.

 

I am grateful to start my eighth year as principal of the ECC and eleventh year serving the district, having been assistant principal here for three years prior.

 

Our school offers both half-day and full-day preschool programs where our young learners experience a nurturing, play-based learning environment. This sets a strong foundation for a lifetime of learning and discovery putting them on a path to reach their full potential.

 

As a point of pride, our preschool program recently earned the Gold Circle of Quality rating as recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education. This is the highest rating for early childhood programs in the state and a rating we have maintained for many years.

 

Attending preschool is a great step in your child’s formal learning journey as 90% of human brain development happens before a child reaches five-years-old. This is the perfect time to introduce new learning opportunities as your young child is naturally curious and full of wonder about the world around them. You will be amazed at how much three- to five-year olds can learn and do!

 

Before your child sets foot in their first school we want to acknowledge that YOU, their parents are your child’s first teachers. They do not come to us as blank slates but with all the experiences and stories they bring from their daily lives with you. It is from this rich base that we help them further their learning.

 

We invite you to be an active part of our preschool community! Whether you attend school events, volunteer, or connect with other families at parent workshops or principal coffee meetings, YOUR involvement and support make a huge difference in your child’s future success from here until they walk across the graduation stage as Tomcats and beyond.

 

Our staff looks forward to serving you and your child this year. Please feel free to reach out to me by phone, email or in person. My contact information is below and I am always happy to help you. Sincerely,