About Us

The Early Childhood Center is St. Johns County School District’s early learning lab school located on the First Coast Technical College campus. Our mission is to provide a high-quality, developmentally appropriate learning environment for children ages three to five through our Head Start, VPK, and ESE Pre-K programs. Our blended Pre-K classrooms are led by highly qualified teachers who are dual certified in both Pre-K/Primary Education and Exceptional Student Education (ESE), ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of young learners. Each blended classroom maintains a student-to-staff ratio of 1 certified teacher and 1 paraprofessional (teacher’s assistant) with up to 20 students, creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. For students requiring more individualized support, our intensive ESE classroom features a lower ratio with 1 certified teacher and 2 paraprofessionals, allowing for increased attention and tailored instruction. This staffing model reflects our commitment to providing high-quality, inclusive early childhood education for all children.

As a model lab preschool, we support the training and professional growth of dual enrollment, secondary, and adult students enrolled in FCTC’s Early Childhood Education program, as well as high school students from the St. Augustine High School Teaching Academy. High school students and technical college students gain valuable, hands-on experience by working in our preschool classrooms alongside our certified teachers and under the supervision of our school administrator. This collaboration allows these future educators to apply what they are learning in the classroom while working toward the credentials required to begin a career in early childhood education. Their presence also enhances the preschool environment by providing additional support, engaging activities, and more individualized attention for our young learners.