The Early Learning Campus (ELC) at the University of Louisville stands as a beacon of exemplary early childhood education. Proudly part of the Gladys and Lewis “Sonny” Bass Louisville Scholar House Campus, the ELC is dedicated to serving not only the children of UofL faculty, staff, and students but also the residents of the Louisville Scholar House, and the wider community. Accredited by the prestigious National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the ELC offers a comprehensive full-day curriculum designed for children from six weeks old up to pre-kindergarten, welcoming all families and children without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age.
What Makes the Early Learning Campus Exceptional?
Located conveniently on UofL’s Belknap Campus at the corner of 5th and Bloom Streets, the Early Learning Campus provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where young learners thrive. Operating from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, and closing slightly earlier at 5 PM on the third Thursday of each month, the ELC is committed to providing consistent and reliable care. The ELC Family Handbook serves as a comprehensive guide to the center, detailing its programs, the application process, and all essential information for enrolled families. For detailed scheduling, the ELC 2024-25 Calendar provides important dates and closures, ensuring families can plan effectively.
Explore the ELC: Virtual and In-Person Tours
To truly appreciate the enriching atmosphere of the Early Learning Campus, we invite you to explore our facilities through a virtual tour. For those who prefer an in-person experience, we host tours on the second Tuesday (10:30 AM) and fourth Thursday (4:00 PM) of each month. Choose a time that suits you best and discover firsthand the nurturing environment we offer. For any inquiries or to schedule a personalized visit, please contact us at (502) 852-3521.
Programs Designed for Every Stage of Early Development
The Early Learning Campus offers age-appropriate programs tailored to meet the developmental needs of children as they grow and learn. From our infant program, “Tiny Tadpoles,” to our pre-kindergarten program, “Dreamers,” each classroom is designed to foster curiosity, exploration, and a love of learning. Our curriculum emphasizes hands-on activities, social-emotional development, and kindergarten readiness, ensuring a well-rounded early education experience.
Hear From Our Parents
“We consider ELC a life-changer for our family. It is a daily challenge to balance a professional career and a family’s well-being. No matter how organized and energetic the parent(s), there are always obstacles for which you find yourself unprepared. Being able to leave your child(ren) in capable, caring hands is a necessity. At the Early Learning Campus, I have no doubt about the care provided for my children, and in fact, I leave them confidently, knowing they have a day of learning, fun, kindness, and healthful meals ahead of them. We know that not every childcare facility offers such a positive environment, and our whole family is grateful for the quality of life offered by the ELC.” – Sarah Lindgren, ELC Parent
Application and Enrollment Information
Interested in enrolling your child at the Early Learning Campus? Detailed Tuition Information is readily available to help you understand program costs. To begin the application process, access the Waiting List/Enrollment Forms. Priority for enrollment is given to families affiliated with the University of Louisville and residents of Family Scholar House. While we welcome applications from other families, including UofL Health families, priority placement remains with our primary partners. Due to high demand, the ELC typically maintains a full enrollment, and openings are often filled from our waiting list. The most common period for new openings is mid-August, as older children transition to kindergarten.
The ELC operates as a collaborative partnership between the University of Louisville and Family Scholar House (FSH). A designated number of enrollment spaces are allocated to FSH, and new FSH residents receive priority if spaces are available. Sibling enrollment is also prioritized as we understand the importance of consistent care for families. When an opening arises, you will be contacted via email within 48 hours to respond to a placement offer. To update your contact information or for waitlist inquiries, please contact Paige Shank at [email protected] or 502-852-3521. Application forms and fees can be mailed or dropped off at the ELC main office. Checks should be made payable to the University of Louisville, with “ELC” and your child’s name noted on the memo line.
NAEYC Accreditation: A Mark of Quality
The Early Learning Campus is proud to be accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the gold standard for early childhood program accreditation. This accreditation signifies our commitment to providing high-quality early learning experiences for all children. Learn more about program accreditation by clicking here.
NAEYC logo, representing the accreditation and high standards of the Early Learning Campus.
Contact Us
Dr. Jill Jacobi-Vessels, Executive Director of the ELC
University of Louisville Early Learning Campus
409 Reg Smith Circle
Louisville, KY 40208
ELC Main Office: 502-852-3521
FAX: 502-852-4391
Email: Dr. Jill Jacobi-Vessels
Support Early Learning: Donate to the ELC!
Your generous donations directly support the enriching programs and resources at the Early Learning Campus. Contribute to the future of early childhood education by donating to the ELC today!
