Wesley Learning Center Celebrates 10th Anniversary

It has been ten years since Wesley Learning Center opened its doors to the areas young children. In that time its enrollment has grown from three classes of 32 students per year, to seven classes with 155 children per year.

When director Rahnna Peck began the school in 1994, she saw a definite need in the community for a quality early childhood program. Her dream was to open a developmentally appropriate and stimulating center for 3- and 4-year-olds.

As a member of the Newtown United Methodist Church since 1966, Ms Peck, a Newtown High School graduate, saw Wesley Learning Center as an opportunity to benefit the church and community. Being a longtime advocate for young children, she approached the church board with her vision to utilize the new education building during the week.

Following six months of filing permit, writing proposals, and endless red tape, her vision became a reality.

In addition to the original program for 3- and 4-year-olds, Wesley is now home to an expanded four-day 4-year-old program, a prekindergarten class, and full-day kindergarten.

“It’s hard to believe that Wesley’s first graduating class are currently freshmen in high school,” said Ms Peck. “My staff and I are always thrilled to see how our former students have blossomed into young adults.” It is obvious that the school holds a special place in the hearts of many of its graduates by the large number of alumni who often return to visit their former teachers.

To stimulate and develop its children, Wesley has a staff of 18 quality teachers. In addition to being very nurturing and dedicated, they possess an abundance of both advanced degrees and practical experience.

Much of the staff has been with the school since its inception.

There will be a celebration of the tenth anniversary on Sunday, April 25, at Newtown United Methodist Church at 11:15 am. The gathering will include alumni and family members; refreshments will be served.

For more information, contact Rahnna Peck at 426-6149.