Early Learning Academy

Early Learning Academy (ELA) is a preschool Program for 3-5 year old children and their parents, designed to provide an exciting and engaging atmosphere for children to explore and learn.  The program is available in the Dakota, Forrestville Valley, Freeport, Orangeville, Pearl City, Lena-Winslow, Stockton, Warren, River Ridge, Scales Mound, Galena, and East Dubuque School Districts, as well as Amity Learning Center.  ELA is funded through the Illinois State Board of Education and offered to students at no cost to the family.  ELA focuses on educating each child with a developmentally appropriate curriculum which is designed to prepare the child for a successful experience in Kindergarten. 

• Young children learn best by doing; their play is their work.  Children are encouraged to be active learners who explore, discover, and develop ideas through direct contact with objects, people, and experiences. 
• The classrooms are set up for exploration-based learning that includes: imaginative play, blocks/building, writing & art, games, sensory exploration, science, and literacy.  The classroom materials and set-up evolve with the students, and their acquisition of skills.  Parents play an integral role in their child's success in school.  Our program offers activities for families and children to attend and play together, so they both learn how to interact in a way that fosters successful communication and support.
• Early Learning Academy offers a free preschool screening to all students 3-5 years of age in our area.  The purpose of the screening is to ensure that each child is developing to his/her full potential, and to offer resources to families of children that have additional needs.  Please call your local school district to schedule a preschool screening appointment. ​​​