July 21 was a special day at United Community’s Early Learning Center

July 21 was a special day at United Community’s Early Learning Center as our preschool Class of 2026 proudly received their diplomas and celebrated an important milestone on their journey to kindergarten.

Dressed in bright blue caps and gowns, the graduates proudly paraded into the school cafeteria as family members, friends, teachers, and staff gathered to cheer them on.

The students had a special surprise planned for their families: a rendition of “I Believe I Can Fly.” They started out a little quiet—and understandably a little nervous—but that quickly changed when their teachers, Ms. Alberta and Ms. Lolita, stepped forward to join them. With a little encouragement, their confidence began to grow. By the end of the song, you could hear every little voice singing proudly on stage—and plenty of voices singing along from the audience, too.

The celebration continued as teachers and staff reflected on the students’ achievements and memorable moments from the past year. Each graduate then had their moment to walk across the room and proudly receive their diploma.

But their diplomas weren’t the only keepsakes they took home. Each student received a special portfolio documenting their journey at the Early Learning Center, filled with artwork, accomplishments, developmental milestones, and photos capturing their growth—from their first days at the ELC to their final days as preschoolers.

For some of our graduates, that journey began years ago. Several entered the Early Learning Center as infants and have quite literally grown up within our classrooms. Along the way, they have developed important school-readiness skills in literacy, letter recognition, numbers, science, and language. Through a blend of purposeful play and academic learning, they have also strengthened the social-emotional, physical, and cognitive skills that will help them thrive in kindergarten and beyond.

Graduation may mark the end of their time as ELC students, but it is also the beginning of an exciting new chapter. They now join the growing family of Early Learning Center alumni, leaving our doors more confident, curious, and ready for what comes next.

This celebration was made even more special thanks to the generosity of our community and corporate partners. We are incredibly grateful to Insperity, Devotion to Children, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, and Cakes for Kids for helping us celebrate our graduates and make their big day one to remember.

Here’s to a bright future for the Early Learning Center new graduates!