Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend

Headquartered in Tallahassee, Florida, the ELC proudly serves Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Taylor, and Wakulla county. A contracted partner with the State of Florida's Office of Early Learning, the ELC is responsible for the administration of the School Readiness and Voluntary PreKindergarten programs. The ELC began operations as the Leon School Readiness Coalition in 2001 as required by the School Readiness Act- F.S. 411.01. In response to legislative requirements, the ELC has gone through several transitions, mergers as well as name changes and in 2005 expanded its service area to encompass the seven counties served today. Throughout this ELC’s history, the Board and staff have strived to provide a holistic service delivery system that is responsive to needs of families and communities while maintaining effective and efficient business practices supporting the following primary goals: 1.Children are ready for success when they enter school; and 2.Families have access to the quality child care services and assistance they need. The ELC staff work everyday at effectively connecting approximately 7,000 children and their families to the early learning program that best meets the needs of the child and family. Working with a network of over 300 child care programs and local community partners, the ELC provides a comprehensive system of services including the following: Family Services: •Child care information and resources •Customized child care referrals •School Readiness tuition assistance •Voluntary PreKindergarten programs for 4 and some 5 year olds •Referrals and assistance in accessing additional community resources Child Services: •Hearing, vision and developmental screening •Early literacy programs such as the My First Books "giving library" Provider/Teacher Services: •Professional development through on-line and classroom training •On-site coaching and technical assistance •Resource development •Links to community resources and volunteers