Early learning center staff ask DeKalb school board for a formal role in planning the ELDC's future

Katie Huber, an early learning teacher at the Early Learning Development Center (ELDC), and several staff members told the DeKalb Board of Education during the meeting's public-comment period that they want a formal role in upcoming decisions about the center. "We stand here tonight to advocate for our students, family, and staff," Huber said, asking the board to include program staff in conversations about the ELDC's future.

The remarks came during the meeting's public-comment section, which the board reserves for brief community statements. Huber said staff would like opportunities to "educate you on our history of our program as well as the importance of early childhood education and the impact on our youngest and most vulnerable learners." She said staff look forward to working with the district "to create a center that will best meet our students and families and communities needs."

Board members acknowledged the comment; the board did not take any action at the meeting. Public-comment remarks are separate from agenda items and do not, by themselves, create district policy or direction. The board may place the subject on a future agenda for formal discussion or direct staff to follow up.

Background: The Early Learning Development Center (ELDC) provides early childhood education services for the DeKalb district. Huber and the staff members who spoke asked specifically for inclusion "at the table" as district leaders continue planning for the center. The board did not announce a follow-up timeline at the meeting.