This spring, a new class of Early Learning Center graduates traded learning time for stage time, walking in (adorable) caps and gowns to mark their big leap to kindergarten. Family, teachers, and MOBC staff packed the room to celebrate.

“Look at you now,” said Anthony Creasy, ELC director. “You have not only learned your letters numbers and colors, but you’ve learned valuable, lifelong lessons by making new friends, practicing kindness, and discovering just how exciting learning can be when you’re surrounded by a community of loving, caring educators and families that support you.”

“It has been such a joy to have watched you grow this year, and we know and expect that you are going on to do great things,” added Sherica Clark Nelms, MOBC’s Chief Program Officer.

Tasha Cartwright, MOBC’s Vice President of Families and Community Engagement, noted that the students’ success was also due to the parents, grandparents, and caregivers who showed up every morning, packed the bags, asked the questions, and made sure their child walked through the door ready to learn.

This 2026 class joins hundreds of children our ELC has prepared for kindergarten success. Each one arrived at the beginning of their educational journey. Each one left confident and ready for their next adventure, whether at East End Prep, Explore! Community School, or another nearby school.

Thanks to donors like you, our community-designed Early Learning Center is where a child’s first school experience fills them with the curiosity and confidence to do great things.