Bellevue College Early Learning Center is Open, Accepting New Students

The Bellevue College Early Learning Center (ELC) is now open and accepting new students. Current openings are available for children 1 to 6 years of age in the toddler and preschool classrooms.

“We’re excited to offer the opportunity for community enrollment at this time,” said ELC Director, Lisa Alvarez Miller. The ELC serves the children of Bellevue College faculty, staff and students, with half of the slots reserved for Costco employees. Community availability is contingent upon BC and Costco student enrollments.

The Center, which opened its current 22,000 square-foot building in 2001, provides a warm, secure setting where each child can develop their potential socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. Center programming maintains a child-centered philosophy.

Center families experience strong, caring parent-teacher partnerships; educated teachers and staff; nutritious meals and snacks; positive, respectful interactions among adults and children; hands-on learning activities appropriate to children’s age and development; and a nurturing environment where children, families and staff thrive.

In addition to curriculum and center programing, the ELC has developed a set of COVID-19 protocols using CDC and state licensing guidelines to keep children, staff and families safe and healthy. Measures include: reduced class sizes; daily temperature checks; frequent hand-washing; mask guidelines; and regular surface sanitization.

The Center boasts a core staff of Early Childhood specialists and teachers. Each teacher at minimum, holds an associate degree with 45 credits of Early Childhood Education, though many ELC teachers hold a BA in Education or Early Childhood Education. Fifty percent have been working at the ELC for 10+ years.

Interested families can learn more and begin the enrollment process by visiting the ELC website or by contacting Elisabeth Bothwell at the ELC either via phone at 425-564-1117 or email at elisabeth.bothwell@bellevuecollege.edu.

About the Early Learning Center

BC’s Early Learning Center (ELC) offers childcare in a nurturing environment that encourages discovery, learning and development for children and their families. The program is designed for children ranging in ages three months to 6 years.