Overview
SRMT ELC
The SRMT Early Learning Center (ELC) is a sub-division of the Education Department and is located at 25 Library Road Akwesasne, NY 13655. Staff can be reached at 518-358-2988 or via fax at 518-358-3585.
ELC is comprised of Child Care which serves children ages 6 weeks up to 5 years and a Head Start Program, which serves children ages 3 years to 5 years. The SRMT ELC provides a complete child and family development program for children and their families. We believe that parents/guardians are the child's first and most important teacher. The Early Learning Center encourages families to participate in all aspects of the program. We are committed to fostering an environment of inclusivity, security, and supportive and nurturing relationships. Our teachers provide intentional, individual, play-based and meaningful experiences that are grounded in developmentally appropriate practice. The Early Learning Center believes that providing a responsive and stimulating early childhood experience positively impacts children, families, and the community now and for the next seven generations.
ELC Mission Statement
The Early Learning Center aspires to enrich the growth and development of children, through supportive quality services that address individual and family needs.
Head Start
The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe Early Learning Center Head Start Program is a non-profit organization that serves the income eligible children and families in the Akwesasne service area. The SRMT Head Start program promotes the school readiness of preschool-aged children through play-based learning. SRMT ELC Head Start provides a full day program, the hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Head Start program also aims to engage parents/guardians or other key families' members in positive relationships with a focus on family well-being. Parents/guardians can participate in leadership roles, including having a say in program operations through volunteering, Parent and Policy Council Committees.
Head Start programs support children's growth in a positive learning environment through a variety of services which include:
- Early learning and development: Children's readiness for school and beyond is fostered through individualized learning experiences. Through relationships with adults, play, and planned and spontaneous instruction, children grow in many aspects of development. These include social skills, emotional well-being, language and literacy skills, mathematics, and science concepts. Early learning experiences also include the cultural and language heritage of each child and family in relevant ways. Parents, including grandparents, foster parents, and other primary caregivers, are recognized as children's first and most influential teachers. Their knowledge of their children is central to each child's individualized approach. Additionally, Head Start programs work with families, school districts, and other entities to facilitate a smooth transition to kindergarten for each child.
- Health: Health and physical development are crucial for early learning opportunities that require children to fully explore and experience their environment. Head Start programs provide safe and healthy learning experiences indoors and outdoors. All children receive health screenings and nutritious meals, and programs connect families with medical, dental, and mental health services to ensure children are receiving the care and attention they need. Children receive support for building resiliency to cope with possible adverse effects of trauma. Families also receive mental health consultation focused on each child's needs.
- Family well-being: Parents and families are offered program services to support family well-being and to achieve family goals, such as housing stability, continued education, and financial security. Programs support and strengthen parent-child relationships and engage families in the learning and development of their child.
Head Start is available at no cost to children ages 3 to 5 and enrollment is based on a Selection Criteria approved by Policy Council members. The SRMT ELC Head Start is able to provide transportation to and from the center, so enrolled children can participate regularly.
Need to speak with us?
Reach out today.