HELC was organized in April 1980.  In July 1980, it became the first non-profit preschool recognized by the State of Missouri in northern Boone County.  By December 31, 1980, the Center had become a 501(c) (3) organization in compliance with the Internal Revenue Service.  We are a United Way funded early childhood education center and managed by a Board of Directors.  The Board of Directors represent parents and community leaders, as well as early childhood educators and advocates. 

During this period our Center licensed and cared for 32 children.  Infant care was added in 2002 with a license to care for 12 infants.  Over time, the center grew to the current license of 60. 

In 2001, the Board of Trustees recognized a need for infant and toddler care in the community and expanded the facilities and services to provide care for infants and toddlers.  In 2007, we collaborated with First Chance for Children to implement the Emerging Language and Literacy Curriculum (ELLC) in our preschool classroom (ages three to five years of age). 

HELC was established in 1980.  Our center is a Missouri state licensed non-profit early childhood center governed by a Board of Trustees. 

HELC operates under certain rules and regulations as dictated and directed by the Missouri Department of Health, as contained in the Licensing Rules for Group Day Care Home and Child Care Centers in Missouri.  A copy is available in the office for your review. 

The licensing rules mandate that the staff at the Center report any suspected child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. 

VISIT OUR CENTER 

We encourage families to visit our center before enrolling their child, look around, ask questions, and interact with the Center and staff.  We encourage all families, if possible, to bring your child and let them visit and interact with the other children, prior to enrollment. 

We have an open door policy.  If at any time you would like to visit with your child, you are welcome to do so, and we encourage involvement.

 In addition, we welcome extended family to visit and see your child during the day.