Background Statement
Durango Early Learning Center (DELC) is a non-profit 501(c)3, early childhood center that was founded in 1978. DELC is a year-round program, serving children ages 18 months to 5 years and licensed for 55 students per day. We value all children as individuals and recognize that each child has something special to bring to our community. We believe that the education of young children is a collaborative process, encompassing the child, their family, the school, and the larger community. We put these philosophies into action through learning by:
-Implementing a play-based approach to learning, utilizing daily observations on each child's interests and developmental needs to inform individualized learning experiences and adaptations to the classroom environment.
-Preparing children for kindergarten, and more importantly becoming functioning members of our larger community, is at the core of our social-emotional focus.
-Using a respectful and supportive approach to all aspects of behavior, striving to make connections with children to help them navigate the complicated nature of their emotions and interactions with others.
-Engaging families as active participants in their child's first formal educational experience and require annual family hours. Families support the school through participation in classroom activities, purchasing of supplies and helping with facility upkeep.
-We cultivate programs to support diversity among our DELC community.