About us
All children deserve opportunity, nurturing, and support. At Hilltop Early Learning Center, we ensure Hilltop’s children get access to a space that prepares them for success in kindergarten and in life.
Background
Research shows crucial brain development happens in the first five years of life and high quality pre-k sets children up for academic success. In 2017, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther created the Hilltop Early Childhood Partnership (HECP) in response to data showing fewer children residing in the Hilltop neighborhood were enrolled in quality early learning programs than anywhere else in the city. The HECP 2018 Report concluded the need for a pre-kindergarten center along with awareness of the necessity of quality pre-k education.
The City of Columbus made a historic $20 million investment in the Hilltop by constructing the Hilltop Early Learning Center, which opened in summer 2023. The center includes a state-of-the-art healthcare facility, food security resources, counseling, and more – all in one location and at no cost for most in the Hilltop community.
A Historic Partnership
Hilltop Early Learning Center, with lead partner Columbus Early Learning Centers, is an extension of the community, with a team who understands what it takes to help children develop, families succeed, and neighborhoods thrive. The first-of-its-kind facility includes partnerships with:
Nationwide Children’s Hospital
The Hilltop Early Learning Center includes a nearly 3,000 square foot full-service health center operated by Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The center will provide routine preventative care, physicals, immunizations, mental health services and more.
Food Security Resources
Hilltop ELC recognizes supporting the child means supporting the family. The center will provide children with breakfast, lunch and snacks during the school day. It will also have a food pantry on site to provide resources to families who need them.
Trusted Partners Providing Quality Education
The center’s education partners – Child Development Council of Franklin County, the Childhood League Center, Columbus City Schools, and YMCA of Central Ohio – are coming together to provide children with education and care to prepare them for kindergarten.
A Community Resource
Hilltop Early Learning Center’s free prekindergarten program is open to preschoolers in the Hilltop community. The other services provided at Hilltop Early Learning Center — including access to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, counseling services, food pantries, and more — are available to the entire Hilltop community, no matter whether or not they have a child enrolled in pre-k.
Health and Safety is our Top Priority
The health and safety of your children is a top priority at the Hilltop Early Learning Center. Our facility is equipped with security features that ensure only approved staff and caregivers can enter the pre-k classrooms. The center exceeds required security protocols, procedures, and staff training to keep your children safe while in our care.
