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ELC Program Information

NJELC ceremony Photo

 

Nathaniel Jones Early Learning Center (NJELC)

The Nathaniel Jones Early Learning Center (NJELC) is committed to cultivating a love for learning through a high-quality preschool program that focuses on early academic achievement and whole-child development. Starting at age three, children engage in hands-on, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that build a strong foundation for kindergarten readiness and future success.

Guided by experienced and highly qualified educators, our preschool promotes high academic standards in a nurturing and safe environment where every child is encouraged to grow, explore, and thrive.

As a Level 3 provider on Indiana’s Paths to QUALITY rating system, NJELC is recognized for excellence in health and safety practices, curriculum planning, and school readiness. We equip students with the essential skills, confidence, and kindergarten readiness needed for long-term academic achievement.

NJELC proudly supports families by offering information and assistance with early childhood funding options, including CCDF (Child Care Development Fund) and On My Way Pre-K. These programs help make high-quality early learning more accessible. Spots are limited, so early enrollment is encouraged.

Give your child a strong start at NJELC—where learning begins, and possibilities are endless. 

Preschool 3’s & Early Learning 4’s Full-Day Program

At the Nathaniel Jones Early Learning Center, we believe every child deserves a strong start. Our Preschool 3’s and Early Learning 4’s programs are designed to provide a rich foundation for both social and academic growth, preparing children for long-term success in kindergarten and beyond.

Operating on the Pike Township Schools calendar, our full-day preschool program follows the Indiana Early Learning Foundations to ensure developmentally appropriate, engaging instruction that promotes early literacy, math readiness, motor development, and social-emotional learning.

Who Can Enroll?

Our program is available to:
  • Pike Township residents, or
  • Children of Pike Township employees
  • Non-residents of Pike Township 
If you reside outside of Pike Township, you are still welcome at NJELC! Families who live outside the district must complete an Out-of-District Transfer Application.
👉 No matter where you live, you belong in Pike!
The MSD of Pike Township is proud to offer the exceptional educational opportunities of our district to all students during the 2025–2026 school year.
To learn more or begin the out-of-district process, please visit:
📄 2024–2025 Out-of-District Transfer Information (Bilingual PDF)

Program Details

  • Class Sizes:
    • Preschool 3's up to 20 students per classroom
    • Early Learning 4's up to 24 students per classroom
  • Staff-to-Student Ratio:
    • 1:10 for 3-year-olds
    • 1:12 for 4-year-olds
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks provided by Chartwells Food Services

Hours of Operation

  • School Day: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Loving Care (Before & After School Care):
    • 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM
    • 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Highly Qualified Educators

Our caring and knowledgeable staff meet or exceed early childhood education standards, holding credentials such as:
  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degrees in Early Childhood Education
  • Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials
  • Relevant/current experience working with preschool-aged children

Tuition & Enrollment

  • Enrollment Fee: A total of $200 is due to secure your child’s spot (If spots are available). This includes a $165 payment that goes toward the first week of tuition and a $35 supply fee (supply fee non-refundable).

  • Weekly Tuition: $165 per week (includes before and after-school care)

  • Assistance: CCDF vouchers and OMW-PreK are accepted

  • Call 317-387-7101 for assistance with tuition support.

Financial Assistance for Preschool Families

🔗 Apply for On My Way Pre-K
Indiana’s On My Way Pre-K program provides free, high-quality preschool for eligible 4-year-olds to prepare them for kindergarten success. (Limited spaces available, Apply Now!) 

🔗 Child Care Assistance through CCDF
Learn how the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) can help families cover the cost of child care while they work, attend school, or receive training. (Limited spaces available, Apply Now!) 

Enrollment Requirements

To complete your child’s registration, please provide:
  • Original birth certificate
  • Up-to-date immunization records
  • Photo ID of the legal guardian
  • Three proofs of residency or proof of Pike Township employment
  • Confirmation that your child is potty-trained
  • Transportation must be provided by parents/guardians

Limited Spots Available – Enroll Early!

Enrollment for the 2025–26 school year begins July 31st, 2025.
We encourage families to act quickly—space is limited and spots fill up fast.

Give your child the gift of a strong start at Nathaniel Jones Early Learning Center—where children grow, learn, and thrive in a safe, nurturing, and academically rich environment.

ENROLL YOUR CHILD