Regina Early Learning Centre - Our Philosophy and History

Our Philosophy and History

Where we started Working as a kindergarten teacher at an inner city Regina school, Anne Luke, along with a group of concerned parents, saw the failure of low income children in school as a problem they wished to address. In 1977 Anne conducted a door-to-door survey in the city's North Central neighbourhood to see if there was interest in developing a unique preschool program. It was from this beginning as a small grassroots community organization that the Early Learning Centre has grown and developed.
Anne was the first staff person when the Centre opened its doors in September 1977. She was joined on staff six months later by Muriel Lerat, one of the parent volunteers. Anne and Muriel's partnership combined their unique experiences of formal early childhood education and practical low-income living. It became the model for how the Centre operates to this day – blending theoretical knowledge with community knowledge.
		Where we are While the Centre has grown in size and scope since its beginnings in 1977, it continues to work with the community in a collaborative and interactive way. Parents are viewed first and foremost as partners. By respecting families, listening to their voices and acknowledging their inherent strengths, the Centre has created a program which actively involves parents in their children’s early development and education, connects the child’s home and school life and provides parents with opportunities to better fulfill their role.
The Centre’s success challenges the notion of “high risk” children and families by clearly identifying that the “high risks” are the socio-economic factors which influence the life cycle from the prenatal stage through adulthood. "The collaborative approach is empowering, creates a community where everyone has a role, something to offer. Each is recognized as equally important and feels vital to the ELC community, whether they are administration, drivers or others."
	What we believe We believe that: All children have the right to grow and learn in a supportive environment sensitive to their needs. Parents are their child’s first teacher. The community has a responsibility to support the healthy development of children and families. Learning occurs within the context of supportive relationships. Respect and mutuality characterize the relationships between staff, children and families.

Comments or questions? Contact the Early Learning Centre