Stories of Impact: The Learning Collaborative
by Laura Boorman Truesdale
The Learning Collaborative (TLC) is the 2024 WIF Education Grants partner and an inspiring example of the incredible impact that access to excellent early education can have on children and families in the Charlotte community. Founded in 1987, TLC is Five-Star licensed and the only tuition-free, high-quality Early Education and Family Success program in Charlotte. TLC describes itself as a “comprehensive preschool program with hands-on involvement between teachers, students, families, patrons and the community,” and that description could not be more accurate – The Learning Collaborative wraps itself around its students and their entire support system to create comprehensive and meaningful outcomes. Anyone who walks through TLC’s front doors can feel the enthusiasm and excitement that The Learning Collaborative staff bring each day!
TLC students receive not only high-quality education, but also a variety of supplemental services such as speech and occupational therapy, transportation, three healthy meals, and social-emotional learning and support. This year, a newly renovated outdoor classroom and playground provides TLC students with unique opportunities to learn about and experience nature in unique ways. During a recent visit, students showed off newfound bike-riding skills and were proud to share all about their new learning space.
One of the most unique aspects of The Learning Collaborative is its Family Success Program. TLC administrators equip caregivers with the resources they need for their own personal, professional, and emotional growth, and the skills to model successful behaviors and habits for their families. TLC families recently participated in a budgeting and meal planning workshop to learn how to create healthy, affordable meals. Participants received a crockpot, a bundle of healthy recipes, and Food Lion gift cards to encourage them to use their new skills at home. Already this school year, over 40 families have signed up to participate in the “Triple P” parenting workshop series, and TLC has seen increased engagement with male caregivers and family members through a new initiative called “Men Friends Day.” By “going deeper” with their students’ families, TLC has helped facilitate increased confidence, resourcefulness and accountability that impacts all members of the students’ support system.
There are many ways that WIF members can support The Learning Collaborative, including volunteering with students, participating in TLC’s various programs, or providing financial support or other resources. Visit their website to learn more: https://www.tlccharlotte.org
