Philosophy and Approach
Our philosophy is rooted in the research-supported idea that meaningful learning for children happens through play. Children are celebrated for who they are as unique individuals and as group members. As children, they have rights that we as adults must recognize and protect.
At HP Community, children have the right to:
- Free, open-ended play which allows them time to explore, discover, and relate to others
- A safe, stimulating school environment that is purposely set up to provide them with a wide variety of experiences and opportunities to learn
- Express their ideas, perspectives and questions and to be listened to by adults and peers and know their ideas are valued
- Engage in meaningful collaboration and problem-solving
- Feel safe and secure, accepted and loved.
At HP Community, we use a blended approach when working with children.
- Reggio Emilia approach. Many of our teachers draw inspiration to varying degrees from this internationally recognized philosophy of early childhood education which focuses on project work built around children’s interests as a means of stimulating questioning, exploring and building understanding.
- Thematic approach. Some teachers employ a hands-on series of experiences which are integrated around particular topics or subjects.
- Creative Curriculum. This is a researched-based, required curriculum of Preschool For All and other commercially available curricula to augment what happens in the classroom.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Highland Park Community Early Learning Center, a non-profit organization, is committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment where all board members, staff, volunteers, and families feel respected and valued regardless of gender, age, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation or identity, disability, education, or any other basis.
We’re committed to being nondiscriminatory and providing equal opportunities for employment, volunteering, and advancement in all areas of our work.
We respect the value that diverse life experiences bring to our board, leadership, staff and families and we strive to listen to their views and give them value.
We’re committed to modeling diversity, inclusion, and equity and maintaining fair and equal treatment for all.
Our board’s philosophy is to provide informed leadership for diversity, inclusion, and equity including:
- Striving to see diversity, inclusion, and equity in connection with our vision and mission for the benefit of those we serve.
- Aiming to recognize and address inequities in our policies, programs, and services.
- Updating and documenting progress on our diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.
- Committing to being transparent about diversity in all our interactions.
- Striving for diversity within our board and leadership positions.
- Committing to leading with respect and tolerance and we encourage all employees and volunteers to express this in their work within our organization.
To the best of our ability, Highland Park Community Early Learning Center commits to the following action items to promote diversity, inclusion, and equity in our work:
- We will create new learning opportunities and formal, transparent policies as we strive for cultural competence throughout our organization.
- We will take action to improve diversity, inclusion, and equity in our board and leadership positions.
- We will identify resources for our underrepresented constituents by networking with other organizations that are also committed to efforts for diversity, inclusion, and equity.
- We will train our personnel to be responsible for orienting, onboarding, and training our staff and volunteers on equitable practices.
- We will be transparent about the salary range for public job descriptions.
Board Approval date: 8.27.24