HCPS Elon W Rhodes ELC Addition

The Elon W. Rhodes Early Learning Center is uniquely designed to facilitate experiential learning as a means to holistically grow social skills, coordination, and sensory development. Measured risk-tasking related to play, touch, sight, taste, smell, and listening are encouraged. With a curriculum based on cognitive development, the Early Learning Center (ELC) encourages curiosity and inquiry in young learners in order to inspire lifelong learning.

The ELC was designed in response to ongoing research in the field of early childhood learning and through careful study of the Reggio Emilia approach that emphasizes self-directed, experiential learning opportunities in relationship-based settings. Rooted in the principles of respect, responsibility, and community, and paired with measured risk-taking and exploration, this self-directed approach echoes and supports HCPS' literacy vision which encourages: "meaningful tasks that engage students ... in a continual process of constructing meaning through listening, speaking, reading, and writing." In other words, experiential learning is key to fulfilling HCPS' vision.

The 2-story ELC is comprised of learning neighborhoods with studios and support spaces stitched to a central organizing promenade or ‘entourage' space that acts as a community hearth for dining, hands-on learning, art, and gathering.

Community 'entourage 'areas along with hubs for literacy and movement engage circulation outside the learning studios to foster community and diverse active spaces. Paired learning studios encourage community within the ELC and help early learners develop incremental connections to the surrounding school context. Interior environments are designed to foster optimal growth and development opportunities for exploration and learning while offering healthy connections to the outdoors. Play areas and a roof terrace support creative play, active movement and focused inquiry, sand and water play, and opportunities to explore nature.