Frequently Asked Questions and Feedback

  • Boy looking through a telescope

    1. What is the new Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC)?
    The new ECLC is an educational facility designed to provide high-quality early learning opportunities for children ages 0-5 in the City of Decatur. The center aims to close the academic achievement gap and ensure all children, regardless of background, are prepared for long-term academic success.

    2. Where will the new ECLC be located?
    The new ECLC will be located at Electric Avenue and W. Trinity Place, directly across from the Ebster Recreation Center in Decatur.

    3. Why is CSD building a new ECLC?
    Early childhood education lays the foundation for a child's future academic, social, and emotional development, setting them up for success later in life. Babies and children who attend quality early childhood education programs are more likely to succeed academically, graduate from high school, and attend college. These programs offer an invaluable opportunity to level the playing field for children from all socioeconomic backgrounds.  

    4. How will the new ECLC aim to address the achievement gap?
    The new ECLC will offer critical early learning opportunities that help level the academic playing field by ensuring that children, regardless of socioeconomic status, have access to a high-quality learning environment from an early age.

    5. What is the timeline for the development of the new ECLC?
    October 2024: Early learning panel and listening sessions
    December 2024: Presentation of program model, building renderings, and funding options
    January 2025: Continued community engagement
    Spring/Summer 2025: Construction phase begins; center expected to open in 2027.

    6. How has the community been involved in the planning process?
    In order to ensure the community is an integral part of the planning, CSD has hosted listening sessions, surveys in multiple languages, and consultations with stakeholders like parents, local schools, and the Decatur Housing Authority. Regular updates and feedback opportunities will continue throughout the development process.

    7. How can I contribute to the development of the new ECLC?
    CSD invites partners who are passionate about equity in education to contribute to the development of the ECLC. Contact earlylearning@csdecatur.net to learn about partnership and sponsorship opportunities.

    Stakeholders may submit additional questions through the CSD New Early Childhood Learning Center Questions Form.