The Duneland YMCA is thrilled to announce a significant expansion of its early childhood education program through a new partnership with the Duneland School Corporation (DSC). As part of DSC’s innovative Birth-to-School initiative, Duneland Y Preschool is extending its reach to the Trojan Learning Center, located within Chesterton Middle School at 601 W Morgan Ave, Chesterton, IN (Door #9). This strategic move will bring vital early learning opportunities and family support services directly to the heart of the community through the Trojan Learning Center.
Building upon the strong foundation of the Forchetti Family YMCA Center for Early Learning (270 E Burdick Rd, Chesterton, IN), which currently serves 97 children aged 6 weeks to 5 years, this expansion signifies the YMCA’s ongoing commitment to early childhood development. The addition of a Y preschool program at the Trojan Learning Center will provide exceptional educational experiences for young children and offer crucial support for their families within the Duneland area.
“Bringing the YMCA half-day preschool to the Trojan Learning Center marks an exciting first step in our expanded mission to serve even more children and families in the Duneland community,” stated YMCA COO Shannon Spratley. “Looking ahead to the development of the YMCA Healthy Living Campus, this partnership with the DSC, coupled with additional classroom space at the new Y and our existing Forchetti Family YMCA Center for Early Learning, positions the Y to significantly increase our impact on early childhood development and family support in the years to come.”
The Duneland Y Preschool at the Trojan Learning Center is meticulously designed to guide children in achieving key developmental milestones throughout the school year. Offering both morning (8:30 – 11:30 am) and afternoon (12:15 – 3:15 pm) Pre-K classes, Monday through Friday, the program provides flexible options for families. Furthermore, recognizing varied family needs, the Y also offers a Monday/Wednesday/Friday class (8:30 – 11:30 am) for 4-5 year olds and a Tuesday/Thursday class (8:30 – 11:30 am) tailored for 3 year olds. Please note that children must be 3 years old by August 1st and fully potty trained to enroll in these enriching programs.
The half-day preschool curriculum is thoughtfully structured to foster holistic child development for children aged 3 to 5. Through age-appropriate and engaging activities, the program focuses on nurturing cognitive, social-emotional, and physical skills. The curriculum encompasses essential areas such as literacy, mathematics, science & technology, and social studies. Children will also benefit from extensive motor skill development in the gymnasium, enriching field trips, and outdoor exploration, providing a well-rounded learning experience.
YMCA Early Childhood Director Melissa Griffith emphasizes the values-driven approach: “Guided by caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, we are dedicated to partnering with families to ensure children have fun while reaching their full potential. At the Y, we firmly believe that the values and skills instilled early in life are fundamental building blocks, shaping confident children today and nurturing caring, contributing adults for tomorrow.”
Registration for the Duneland Y Preschool at the Trojan Learning Center is officially open! Families are invited to an open house at the Trojan Learning Center (601 W Morgan Ave. [Door #9] Chesterton, IN) on August 15th. Prospective families can meet the dedicated teachers and explore the preschool classrooms from 9 – 10 am for morning classes and 1–2 pm for afternoon classes. Following the Duneland School Corporation 2023-2024 School Year Calendar, half-day programming will commence on August 16, 2023, and conclude on May 30, 2024. For comprehensive program details, pricing information, and to register your child, please reach out via email at [email protected].
