Our Philosophy
We are committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and positive learning environment for our children. We strive to develop social/emotional skills, cognitive skills, and physical needs to build a solid and broad foundation for learning and well-being. Each classroom promotes positive relationships with peers and adults, develop resilience, and cultivate a strong sense of self. We want to build a positive and loving association with learning. We enjoy learning through play, interactions, and experiences. Every child has unique qualities that makes him or her an important part of our center. We hope that you will consider visiting the Early Learning Center.
About Us
The ELC is ministry of the First United Methodist Church of Sylva. We are delighted that you are interested in our preschool program. The ELC is a half day preschool program for ages infant to 5 years old. We operate through out the year. August thru May is our regular school year. We follow the Jackson County Public School calendar for holidays and closings. We offer a summer program starting in June thru July (typically 6 to 8 weeks). Our hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. We do offer early drop-off daily beginning at 7:30 am through 8:50 am at an additional cost.
Registration for the 2025-26 School Year is Open!
Registration has begun. Enrollment for the ELC summer program and the 2025-2026 school year is now open. Our registration has gone digital this year. You may go to the church website (sylvafumc.org/elc, scroll down, and click on the registration links). You may pay by credit, debit, or ACH. Remember you are only officially enrolled when you have completed the online form and paid the registration fee online. The fee for the summer session is $50 and $75 for the 2025-2026 school year.
Use these links below to place your child on our list for 2025-2026 school year.
Registration link for the 2025-2026 School Year.
Click HERE for Fall Registration!
Documents & Forms
Required Forms for the 2025-2026 School Year
Important Dates & Downloadable Calendar
No School-- November 10th and 11th (Teacher workday and Holiday)
Thanksgiving Break (No School)-- November 26th- 28th
Christmas Program-- December 11th at 6pm
Christmas Break (No School)-- December 19th-January 6th
ELC Wishlist
