At the heart of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) lies a commitment to fostering growth and development, not just in its students, but also in the youngest members of its community. The Educational Research Center for Child Development (ERCCD) embodies this dedication, offering a comprehensive Famu Care Program designed to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning, the “Rattler way.”
The FAMU ERCCD is more than just a daycare; it’s a place where children are nurtured, educated, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Our Mission and Philosophy: Cultivating Young Minds
The FAMU care program operates with a clear mission: to provide a secure, supportive, and culturally enriched environment. Within this space, children are encouraged to flourish emotionally, socially, physically, and intellectually. This holistic approach ensures that every child receives well-rounded care that addresses all facets of their development.
The philosophy underpinning the FAMU care program is equally profound. It is rooted in the belief that every child is inherently valuable and deserving of love and respect. The program is structured to equip children with the critical thinking skills necessary to become independent thinkers, intelligent actors, and effective members of society. Recognizing that today’s preschoolers are tomorrow’s leaders, the ERCCD is dedicated to igniting a lifelong passion for learning in each child.
Building a Strong Foundation: History and Accreditation
Established in 1989 as New Beginnings Child Development Center, the FAMU care program has a rich history of serving the FAMU community. It provides invaluable childcare services to university constituents while also functioning as a vital resource for early childhood education. The ERCCD offers practical experience opportunities for students, facilitates community service initiatives, and supports graduate-level research in child development.
The FAMU care program adheres to the highest standards of quality and safety. It is a fully licensed childcare facility under the Florida Department of Children and Families, and a recognized provider of School Readiness and Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) programs through the Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend. Furthermore, the ERCCD is accredited by AdvancED, a testament to its commitment to excellence in early childhood education.
Our Dedicated Staff: The FAMUly Approach
The strength of the FAMU care program lies in its dedicated and passionate staff, who are considered the ERCCD “FAMUly.” These educators are committed to helping children develop essential skills in observation, questioning, listening, discovery, and understanding. Recognizing the unique developmental stages of each child, the staff meticulously creates lesson plans tailored to individual needs.
This personalized approach fosters self-confidence and self-respect in young learners, empowering them to maximize their potential and overcome limitations. The FAMU care program staff are not just caregivers; they are facilitators of growth and development, guiding children on their journey to becoming confident and capable individuals.
Mr. Falana | Support Staff /Afterschool Driver/Evening Care Teacher
Mr. Simmons | Rhythm and Drums Instructor, holding degrees in Broadcast Journalism and Communications Management, and a FAMU Doctoral Candidate, showcasing the diverse expertise within the program.
Mrs. Avila | Child Care Program Specialist: Dual Language-Spanish and Classroom Support, bringing expertise in Infant Psychology.
Ms. Floyd | Early Learning Staff, dedicated to nurturing young minds.
Ms. Highley | Front Office, holding a Child Development Associate Credential and providing essential administrative support.
Ms. Jefferson | Child Care Program Specialist-Curriculum and Children’s Educational Services, with extensive credentials in Child Development and Early Childhood Education.
Ms. Shackelford | Child Care Program Specialist-Child Care Food Program and Classroom Support, with a background in Elementary Education.
Ms. Thurman | Director, bringing expertise in Brain-Based Teaching and Psychology/Pre-Kindergarten Primary Education to lead the FAMU care program.
Dedicated Early Learning Staff member contributing to the nurturing environment of the FAMU care program.
Children actively engaged in learning activities within the FAMU care program, highlighting the program’s focus on active learning.
Ms. Colbert | Early Learning Staff, a FAMU Student Employee, demonstrating the program’s connection to the university community.
The FAMU care program at the Educational Research Center for Child Development is a beacon of quality early childhood education within the FAMU community. It’s a place where children are cherished, educated, and empowered to become lifelong learners, ready to make their mark on the world.
