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History of Norma Gray Early Learning Center (Continued) |
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In 1975, Early Learning, which had been the first center in the community to offer childcare for 2 year olds, became the first center to enroll children with special needs. In 1986, the two Region III child care centers, one of which was Early Learning, were the first in West Virginia to be accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs. In 1997, Early Learning was
recognized for its exemplary practices by the governor's cabinet on
children and families. Natural inclusion of all children, low staff
turnover, and well-trained staff were cited as indicators for the
exemplary status. After the retirement of River Valley Child
Development Services executive director and founder, Norma Gray, in
1998, Early Learning was renamed the Norma Gray Early Learning
Center. In 2000,a group of parents whose children attend the center
came together to start a foundation called Friends of Early
Learning. Since its inception in 1973, what is now the Norma Gray
Early Learning Center has helped over 2700Tri-State families care
for and educate their young children.
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