Early Childhood Center (ECC)

At the Early Childhood Center in Alexandria, every child is given the opportunity to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning; no matter their starting point. Since opening in 2019, the Center has become a vital hub for early learning, serving children from some of the most diverse populations in the city, as well as a significant number of students receiving special education services.

The Early Childhood Center includes 22 classrooms: 7 Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) classes, 7 Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) classes, 1 Preschool Autism program, and 7 Campagna Center Head Start and VPI classes through a valued nonprofit community partnership. The ECSE and Preschool Autism programs serve students ages 2–5, while VPI serves children ages 3–5, ensuring critical early support during the most important years of development.

Our student community reflects the rich diversity of Alexandria. Nearly all of our children are dual language learners, with the most commonly spoken home languages including Dari, Amharic, Spanish, and Arabic. This vibrant mix of cultures and languages creates a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where every child’s identity is valued.

Equally diverse and dedicated, our staff bring a wide range of backgrounds and experiences to support student success. Our team also reflects strong linguistic diversity, with staff members helping us connect meaningfully with the families we serve.

What makes the Early Childhood Center truly unique is its collaborative model, bringing together Alexandria’s early childhood stakeholders to create inclusive professional opportunities and coordinated support systems that directly benefit our students.

But we can’t do it alone.

This fundraiser is an opportunity to invest in our youngest learners during the most critical stage of their development. Your support helps provide essential classroom resources, specialized learning materials, enrichment opportunities, and additional services that ensure every child has the chance to thrive.

When you give to the Early Childhood Center, you’re not just making a donation: you’re helping create equitable opportunities, strengthening families, and building a brighter future for our entire community.

Together, we can make a lasting difference; one child, one classroom, one opportunity at a time.