MLK Jr. Early Learning Center unveils renovated classrooms

The Christian County Public School System opened Martin Luther King Jr. Early Learning Center in August 2024, and on Wednesday, educators were joined by members of Jennie Stuart Medical Center to celebrate the building’s expansion.

The Early Learning Center was established at the old Indian Hills Elementary School campus. When it opened, only some of the classrooms were renovated to accommodate some of the county’s youngest learners. Now four more classrooms, two restrooms and a resource center have been renovated and are ready for children.

Jennie Stuart Medical Center played a key role in making the expansion happen by donating $400,000 to the school system. Early Learning Center Principal Kim Lint says they used half of the donated amount for the renovations, and the other half will go toward renovating classrooms and restrooms along the building’s back hallway.

CCPS Superintendent Chris Bentzel thanked Jennie Stuart Medical Center and the CCPS Education Foundation for partnering with them to bring the expansion to life, and called it a step toward making Christian County a better place.

Jennie Stuart Health Board of Trustees Chair Leslie Carroll says their investment in the renovation goes far beyond bricks and mortar, but serves to allow more children to have access to high-quality early childhood education and care.

Along with expanding local childcare resources, Jennie Stuart Chief Administrative Officer, Eric Lee says the Early Learning Center plays an important role in educating future community leaders.

With phase one of the renovations completed, Lint says they should be able to enroll 72 more students. Phase two will include the renovation of four more classrooms, restrooms and two motor skill rooms.