CELC is the oldest early education and care provider in the Midwest area. Founded in 1886, we have been passionately committed to supporting Columbus’ children and families since our inception. We provide education to children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old, the most critical period of a person’s life, through year-round, all-day programming and home visiting. By providing accessible care to families, we reduce financial and professional barriers to overcoming poverty.
Our Mission
To help young learners develop, families succeed, and neighborhoods thrive.
Our Vision
All children have an early learning experience that gives them a foundation for future success in school and in life.
Our Values
Access, Equity and Inclusion
We welcome all children and families regardless of background or need.
Growth Mindset
We promote organizational sustainability through learning and collaboration at every level. This includes our classrooms, our conference rooms, our board room, and within the neighborhoods we serve.
Safe Haven
The physical and emotional safety of our children and families is the foundation of our work.
Passionately Committed
Our early childhood professionals are compelled by utmost respect for the children and families we serve as well as the empathy needed to nurture each child’s individual excellence.
Play to Learn
We enthusiastically endorse a child’s freedom to explore and create. This practice fosters meaningful cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development.
Making a Difference
Our team and community partners advocate for changing the landscape, systems, and policies related to early childhood education.
