WEEK OF THE YOUNG CHILD: NEW HUB OF LEARNING FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AND CAL POLY HUMBOLDT STUDENTS

 Celebrating the Week of the Young Child, Cal Poly Humboldt marked a significant milestone with the official opening of the Trinity Early Learning Center in Arcata, California. Nestled on 14th and B streets, this vibrant center embodies the essence of learning and growth for young children and budding educators alike.

The heart of the Trinity Early Learning Center beats with two esteemed programs: the Children’s Center, a nurturing haven for the University community's little ones, and the Child Development Lab, a beacon of excellence in preschool education for local families and aspiring professionals. Since its doors swung open in August 2023, the center has stood as a testament to the invaluable support it extends to families and future educators in the community.

Stepping into the facility unveils a world designed for exploration and enrichment. Play yards echo with laughter and curiosity, while educational spaces inspire wonder and discovery. Behind the scenes, a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen ensures nourishment for growing minds and bodies. A standout feature is the observation booth, where Child Development students hone their skills in understanding children's behaviors and developmental milestones—a crucial step in shaping the next generation of educators.

Betsy Wilson, director of the Children’s Center, shares, “The new facility has expanded our capacity to offer top-notch child care to local families, while also providing invaluable training opportunities for our dedicated student assistants.”

Echoing this sentiment, Hyun-Kyung You, Cal Poly Humboldt’s Child Development professor and program leader for the Child Development Lab, adds, “The Trinity Early Learning Center is not just a space; it's a community of learners. It provides cutting-edge seminar spaces and immersive observation experiences for our practicum and observation students. Families also benefit from parent education initiatives and knowledge-sharing opportunities within this dynamic environment.”

The rich history of the Trinity Early Learning Center is woven into its very walls. Once the Trinity Hospital, a beacon of healing from 1944 to 1972, the building evolved into a space for knowledge and growth. Despite the ravages of time and underuse, the original redwood structure stood strong, preserving the essence of its past while embracing a new chapter of purpose and vitality.

Mike Fisher, associate vice president of Facilities Management, reflects, “The renovation of the Trinity Annex pays homage to its historic roots, breathing new life into the site and fostering a deeper connection with the surrounding community.”

In every corner of the Trinity Early Learning Center, from its historic foundation to its modern-day innovations, the spirit of learning, care, and community thrives—a beacon of hope and possibility for generations to come.

In 2019, a vision became reality as $8.6 million in state funding paved the way for the transformation of the Trinity Early Learning Center—a $13 million project that stands as a testament to the University's commitment to early education and community support. With additional funding from the University and various project sources, this ambitious endeavor has blossomed into a vibrant hub for learning and growth.

The cornerstone of this initiative is the Children’s Center, a beacon of affordable, high-quality child care and early education since 1971. Catering to the children of University students, staff, and faculty, the center stands out as one of the few in Humboldt County offering infant care—a testament to its dedication to meeting diverse needs and fostering a nurturing environment for young learners.

Complementing the Children’s Center is the Child Development Lab, a pioneer in preschool education and the longest nationally accredited program in Humboldt County. Founded in 1968 by the visionary Emilla Tschantz, the lab continues her legacy of excellence, thanks to a generous endowment from her sister, Cara. Today, it serves as a model preschool, bridging the gap between theory and practice by providing invaluable teaching and learning opportunities for Cal Poly Humboldt students while enriching the lives of local families.

The Trinity Early Learning Center, situated at the historic 14th and B streets in Arcata, embodies a blend of heritage and innovation. Housed within the walls of the original Trinity Hospital, built in 1944, the center's 13,600 square feet of space hums with activity and purpose. From play yards and educational spaces to a commercial kitchen and staff offices, every inch is designed to nurture young minds and inspire growth.

The project's commitment to sustainability is evident in its adherence to LEED Gold Standards. Through the preservation and adaptive reuse of the existing Trinity Annex building, coupled with modern improvements, the center embodies a harmonious balance between preserving history and embracing the future.

As the Trinity Early Learning Center welcomes children into its embrace, it represents more than just a physical space—it's a testament to the transformative power of education, community collaboration, and unwavering dedication to creating a brighter tomorrow for all.

Amidst the picturesque landscapes of Arcata, California, a beacon of learning and joy has emerged—the Trinity Early Learning Center at Cal Poly Humboldt. This vibrant center, celebrated for its dedication to early childhood education, recently unveiled its new chapter with a heartwarming ribbon-cutting ceremony on a sun-kissed Saturday, April 6.

The festivities were graced by Hyun-Kyung You, a revered figure at Cal Poly Humboldt as the Child Development professor and program leader for the esteemed Child Development Lab. With her guidance, children took center stage, their laughter and excitement filling the air as they cut the ribbon, symbolizing the dawn of a new era in early learning.

A tour through the Trinity Early Learning Center unveils a world designed to nurture young minds and foster growth. Sprawling play yards beckon with opportunities for exploration and imagination, while educational spaces buzz with the hum of curiosity and discovery. Support spaces and a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen ensure that every aspect of a child's well-being is attended to with care and dedication.

This transformative project stands as a testament to Cal Poly Humboldt's unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing environment for young learners and supporting families in their educational journey. The blend of history and innovation, preserved in the historic Trinity building turned modern-day learning haven, is a reflection of the center's ethos—honoring the past while embracing the future.

As the Trinity Early Learning Center opens its doors to the community, it symbolizes more than just a physical space—it embodies the spirit of possibility, growth, and endless opportunities for the youngest members of our society. With each child's laughter and each ribbon cut, the center reaffirms its mission to inspire, educate, and empower the leaders of tomorrow.