The St. Charles Childrens Learning Center (CLC) at the College of Southern Maryland congratulated the graduates of its 2013 preschool class during a commencement ceremony on June 7.
Wearing shimmering green caps and gowns, 14 students crossed the stage and accepted diplomas of CLC completion from CSM Auxiliary Services Executive Director Marcy Gannon as parents and friends looked on and applauded.
There is something special about a preschool graduation ceremony mainly because at this time we look back at journeys begun and dreams waiting to be achieved, said CLC Director Shirley Allen.
The ceremony featured student performances of Sound Off, Our Journey and Friends Forever.
It is so impressive to see our 4-year-olds sing songs in other languages and even use sign language with their songs, said CSM Vice President of Advancement Michelle Goodwin.
Exposing children to the languages and cultures of others is extremely beneficial and results in enhanced literacy achievement in the classroom, said Allen, who explained that children in the CLC learn Spanish and sign language, and see items labeled in different languages throughout their classrooms.
The St. Charles Children's Learning Center was established to provide CSM students, faculty and staff, as well as community members, quality, child-centered care. The center enhances the lives of children, their families and the greater Southern Maryland community.
We are all about learning and growing in a safe and nurturing environment. I give credit to our fabulous teachers and our wonderful director, said Goodwin.
The center offers care for more than 100 students, ages from 8 weeks to 12 years old. Since its inception, the CLC and its staff have been devoted to creating an environment that helps children interact with their world and peersbuilding confidence, self-esteem and a life-long love of learning.
For information about the St. Charles Children's Learning Center at CSM, visit www.csmd.edu/clc/ or call 301-934-7871.