At Clark Early Learning Center (ELC), kids don’t just learn their ABCs—they learn they belong.
The State of Ohio recently made that official by awarding Clark with the Inclusive Child Care Program (ICCP) designation, a new recognition that celebrates schools where children of all abilities learn, play, and grow together.
In order to receive this distinction, Clark staff went the extra mile by earning advanced credentials through the Ohio PROMISE, an initiative enacted to make sure every child, with or without disabilities, has the support they need to succeed.
The designation puts Clark on the map as one of Ohio’s leaders in early childhood inclusion—a point of pride for the entire District and Springfield community. Clark ELC is currently the only early care and education program in Clark County to have earned the designation.
“The staff at Clark are deeply committed to doing what is best for all students,” said Clark Principal Caitlin Smith. “We are a team who knows when every student has the opportunity to showcase their strengths, it makes our school community a better place to be.”