Ultimate Preschool GuideThe Washington Township Early Learning Center

The Washington Township Early Learning Center

The Washington Township Early Learning Center is a licensed daycare and preschool with staff who prioritize high-quality early learning. The Early Learning Center is enrolled in Indiana’s Paths to Quality state rating system. The Paths to Quality program ensures that every child’s health and safety needs are met, the environment supports learning, and the planned curriculum guides child development and school readiness. We at the Early Learning Center are dedicated to providing developmentally appropriate, play-based, active learning opportunities. Every classroom boasts a safe and warm environment where children are encouraged to be creative, grow socially and academically, and build a positive self-awareness. We are thrilled to announce that in January 2024, we opened a new state-of-the-art facility located just adjacent to our District central office. Please see photos and videos of our building dedication here.

Website: ht.msdwt.k12.in.us
Address: 8520 Woodfield Crossing Blvd., Indianapolis, IN
Phone: 317-259-5458


Q & A with The Washington Township Early Learning Center:

Tell us a brief overview of The Early Learning Center.

The Early Learning Center is a licensed daycare and preschool. We participate in Paths to Quality, a childcare quality rating system. We are dedicated to providing developmentally appropriate, play-based, active learning opportunities.

Our classrooms provide active learning and developmentally appropriate practice through play for three, four, and five-year-olds. Our team consists of dedicated lead teachers and instructional assistants who support students and teachers in the classroom. Early Learning Center services are provided Monday through Friday.

What is The Early Learning Center’s educational philosophy?

We understand that academic and social/emotional development are equally important and know that children learn best through active, hands-on experiences and play. Therefore, The Creative Curriculum is utilized in our classrooms. The Creative Curriculum helps teachers interact with children in ways that promote development and learning, foster social competence, support learning through play, create rich environments, and forge strong home-school connections.

What is The Early Learning Center’s age/grade range?

The Early Learning Center welcomes students ages three to five.

What is your enrollment policy?

Enrollment is limited to those families who live or work in the Washington Township School (WTS) district. To learn more about our enrollment policy, call 317-259-5458.

What are the standard school day hours?

The Early Learning Center follows the WTS district calendar.

Our hours of operation are 6:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

How many children are in each class? How are children divided up?

The maximum number of children in any classroom at the Early Learning Center is 15, and each class has a lead teacher and assistant.

What is the teacher/child ratio?

Our accrediting/licensing entities establish student-to-staff ratios.

Three-Year-Olds 1:10
Four-Year-Olds   1:12
Five-Year-Olds    1:15

What are the teacher’s credentials?

All of our Early Learning Center teachers meet or exceed the educational requirements established by the State of Indiana.

Is parental participation required?

Parents are welcome and encouraged to engage with their child’s early learning experience.

How do teachers communicate with parents?

Parents are welcome to visit the Early Learning Center and participate in special programs and activities. Parent participation is a vital part of student success. We strive to create an open and continuous communication system that is timely and informative, primarily through text and email. Parents are encouraged to take time at drop off and pick up to talk with their child’s teachers.

Does The Early Learning Center offer support for students with special needs?

The Early Learning Center believes in an inclusive environment. Therefore, Early Learning Center team members will work with the WTS resource team, including therapists, to ensure the program meets each child’s specific needs.

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How much time do the students spend outside?

We provide time twice a day for our children to participate in an outdoor play environment. Children participate in indoor physical activities when temperatures are not conducive to outdoor play.

Are meals and snacks provided?

Children at the Early Learning Center receive breakfast, lunch, and a snack daily. Our food service is provided by Child Nutrition Services staff at North Central High School. Meals are served at the Early Learning Center.

Who should parents contact for more information about your school?

For more information, please contact the Early Learning Center at 317-259-5458.