Essential Info

Where is the ELC?

The Early Learning Center occupies the beautifully-updated Plotkin-Grinspoon building in one wing of our campus. It is conveniently located on the Springfield/Longmeadow line at 1160 Dickinson Street, Springfield, MA 01108. Access is via 594 Converse Street in Longmeadow, MA 01106.

Phone: 413-739-4715

Email: lrichard@springfieldjcc.org

When is the ELC open?

The ELC is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We provide a full-day, 5-days-a-week program.

The ELC provides year-round care but is closed for most major US and Jewish holidays and for one week at the end of summer. Please see the calendar here for full details.

How much is tuition and do you offer financial assistance?

The Springfield JCC is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation. The money needed to operate our ELC comes from tuition, fees, contributions, and fundraising. Tuition is based on an annual fee of care for children at each developmental stage (Infant, Toddler, Preschool). For the convenience of our families, tuition is payable on a monthly basis. A sibling discount is available to families enrolling multiple children in the ELC. ELC pricing is available on request.

The Springfield JCC welcomes families in a wide variety of financial circumstances and is committed to making tuition as accessible as possible to those in need. Guidance on how to apply for financial assistance will be provided during enrollment.

How do I register my child(ren)?

The ELC is currently accepting admissions for toddlers and preschoolers (ages 15 months to 5 years).

To begin the admission process, please complete our Intake Form.

A member of our team will follow up with you to schedule a tour and answer any questions. During your tour, you will visit our classrooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, and the wider JCC facilities that you and your family will be able to enjoy as an ELC family.

After your visit, we will assist you in continuing the application process.

How do you keep our children safe and secure?

Ensuring the safety and security of our children and our entire agency is a critical priority. We have dedicated on-site security during open hours. Families/caregivers are given key fobs upon enrollment as well as an app option for entry into the ELC. The ELC entrance is for our families and staff only. For security reasons, our staff is not authorized to open the door for anyone.

How do we stay in touch with you?

Building and maintaining a strong home-to-ELC connection and keeping you involved in your child’s day-to-day learning experiences at our center is another priority. For day-to-day communication and classroom updates, we use the Remini app which you will have access to once enrolled. Our educators are also available at arrival and dismissal to share info, follow up, and answer questions. Parent-Teacher conferences are held twice each school year, in fall and spring. At these times, teachers will meet with each parent/guardian to discuss the child's individual development and his/her progress. Staff is also available for appointments at other mutually-convenient times.