Early Learning Center (Indiana State University)

Expansion of a modern, center based early learning program in West Central Indiana will fuel economic development. Indiana State University (ISU) is a magnet for attracting talent to the region, and as families relocate, they are often searching for the highest quality care options commonly found in larger metro areas. The COVID-19 pandemic has also greatly exposed the connections between early childhood education providers and the needs of a 21st Century Workforce, particularly working mothers.

ISU and Vigo County School Corporation leaders are committed to a co-design and funding model for an Early Childhood Research Center in the Chestnut Building on ISU's main campus to increase capacity while developing the following:

• Provide an educational laboratory to enhance the body of knowledge surrounding early childhood education.
• Increase capacity for the region.
• Provide excellent, hands-on teacher preparation in early childhood education in a lab school setting.
• Develop a body of research, regarding teaching and child development, that will influence state, regional, and national practices (while elevating Indiana in thought leadership).
• Positively influence state preschool standards and credentialing.
• Increase the number of early childhood education options in the region.