Ross Early Learning Center stands as a cornerstone of early childhood education within the Metro Nashville Public School (MNPS) system. Dedicated to serving the city’s youngest students, Ross ELC employs a dynamic, play-based curriculum designed to ignite a passion for learning in pre-kindergarteners. This approach not only fosters immediate academic development but also lays a robust groundwork for lifelong educational success.
At Ross Early Learning Center, the commitment to each child is paramount. Teachers and staff are deeply invested in ensuring “Every Student is Known.” This philosophy is brought to life through daily personal connections with families during arrival and dismissal, reinforced by proactive positive phone calls and scheduled parent-teacher conferences. MNPS Pre-K programs, including Ross ELC, are accessible to all eligible children and are intentionally structured to focus on crucial areas for early school success. Recognizing the unique learning trajectory of each student, educators at Ross meticulously plan and adapt learning environments. Instruction is thoughtfully tailored to meet children at their current developmental stage, making a significant and positive impact during these formative early years.
Principal Miatta Alexander emphasizes the nurturing environment at Ross, stating, “When students feel loved and cared for, they perform better in school and life. Learning through play is our strength, and carefully crafted classroom environments, along with meaningful relationships with our families, are the foundation for our success with preparing our students to meet academic and social-emotional learning goals. Our students thrive at Ross and leave ready to succeed in kindergarten and beyond.”
The strength of Ross Early Learning Center is further amplified by its community partnerships and robust family involvement. Collaborating with local nonprofit Plant the Seed, Ross enriches its curriculum with weekly gardening lessons, fostering hands-on learning and environmental awareness. The school actively encourages parental participation through the Parent Advisory Council (PAC), providing a platform for families to contribute to the school community. Monthly family workshops are also offered, covering a diverse range of topics pertinent to early childhood development and family support. Demonstrating its commitment to holistic family well-being, Ross operates a clothing closet in partnership with UniCycle, offering essential assistance to families in need.
Key Highlights of Ross Early Learning Center
- Mission Statement: “Ross Early Learning Center is transforming early childhood education; laying the foundation for academic success and lifelong learning through curiosity, inquiry, discovery, and joy.”
- Historical Roots: Ross ELC boasts a rich history in Nashville, tracing back to the original Ross Elementary School established in 1907. Named in honor of Marcus M. Ross, a respected teacher and principal within Nashville City Schools, the current facility on McFerrin Avenue opened its doors in 1988.
- Transition to Early Learning Focus: In 2014, Ross strategically transitioned to an Early Learning Center, specializing in pre-kindergarten education. The curriculum emphasizes outdoor learning, social-emotional development, and structured play, all purposefully designed to bolster academic readiness.
- New Mascot and Branding: Ross Early Learning Center recently unveiled a fresh logo featuring the Ross Robin mascot, adorned in the school’s colors of medium grey and light blue, symbolizing a vibrant new chapter.
Discover More About Ross and Early Learning Programs
To delve deeper into the programs and initiatives at Ross ELC and explore other early learning opportunities within Metro Schools, please visit the MNPS Early Learning and Pre-K website. You can also learn more about the broader “Celebration of Schools” initiative and discover other featured schools on the Celebration of Schools page.
