ECLC Alexandria

The Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC) at Pozez JCC-Beth El is a nurturing, safe, developmentally appropriate learning environment, which is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to education. Our curriculum incorporates Jewish values while being universally inclusive.

We believe that every child is capable, competent, and has the right to be respected as an individual. Our philosophy is based upon the belief that we have the ability and responsibility to nurture each child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through interactions and experiences that foster a zest for life and a love of learning.

8am-5:30pm | Monday-Friday

Program Options

TODDLER PROGRAM
Children ages 16-23 months are eligible for this program.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM
Children who are 2, 3, or 4 years of age by September 30 are eligible for this program.

HIGHLIGHTS
Our program emphasizes joyful Jewish experiences and values, and a connection to community. Our school follows a Reggio Emilia-based philosophy and involves the children as an active part of their own learning and the direction it takes. Our nurturing Educators use a developmental approach to understanding children’s abilities and enabling them to gain confidence and independence.

LOCATION:
3830 Seminary Road,
Alexandria, VA, 22304

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2024

Program Dates

The ECLC is a year-round program which begins August of each year and ends in August the following year. Exact school year dates are determined based on the Alexandria Public Schools calendar. The ECLC closes for one week prior to the new school year beginning, one week in December for winter break and for professional development days during the year. The ECLC is closed for select Jewish holidays and some secular holidays.

Registration

The ECLC is an early childhood education center located in Alexandria, VA. It is a partnership between Pozez JCC and Beth El Hebrew Congregation (where it is housed). We are a licensed, private preschool and childcare center that offers full-day preschool programs. We promote developmental growth through creative interaction between children and teachers within a warm, caring environment that’s based on Jewish values and the Reggio Emilia philosophy of learning (see below).

Children as Constructivist Learners: Kavod (respect) for each child’s ability to think for himself/herself

Early Childhood Directors as Visionaries: Our professional staff has the chochma (wisdom) to make sound decisions for their population

Early Childhood Educators as Professionals: Our Educators develop ahavat limud (love of learning) for themselves and their students

Families as Engaged Partners: Opportunities are provided throughout the year to build kehillah (community) between our families and staff

Discover Coordinated Approach to Childhood Health (CATCH): Emphasis on the Jewish value of sh’mirat ha’guf (taking care of our bodies) through nutrition and exercise

Israel as the Story of the Jewish People: Further learning about Israel to educate our students and their families about the story of the Jewish people

Environments as Inspiration for Inquiry: The concept of the environment as inspiration for inquiry — spaces are intentionally designed to encourage curiosity, intellectual engagement, and creativity

An integral part of the program is building a foundation for a positive Jewish identity. This Framework is a basis for the continued education of the children in our program which builds upon the foundations already in place through the Reggio Emilia-inspired philosophy.

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