Early Learning and Development Center

Elevate the Early Learning and Development Center.

The Early Learning and Development Center (ELDC) at Northern Arizona University is a cornerstone of support for young children, families, and future educators. As a high-quality early learning program and a hands-on lab school, the ELDC models exemplary practices for families, preservice teachers, and disciplines across NAU.

Today, however, the Center faces an urgent challenge. As federal grants decline and are set to end this September, critical funding that supports childcare assistance for student-parents is disappearing. Nationally, more than 71% of student-parents are considered low-income, and childcare is the number one barrier to completing a degree. Donor support is essential to sustaining access, maintaining high-quality services, and ensuring that this vital resource continues to serve our community.

Supporting children, students, and future educators.

Your gift to the Early Childhood Education Center can make an immediate and meaningful difference. The ELDC currently serves 40 families, including 55 NAU students—20 of whom are student-parents balancing coursework, careers, and caregiving responsibilities.

Your collective support makes a meaningful impact:

$5,000 raised can...

• Fund two student workers from the College of Education for a semester, offering valuable, job-embedded professional development and on-site coaching aligned with their career pathways.

$10,000 raised can...

• Support the enrollment of new student-parent families by providing reduced childcare tuition for 2–3 families.

Thank you for you axe of kindness!

Thank you for supporting the ELDC during the 2026 Homecoming Campus Open House. Your generosity helps preserve the quality, access, and impact of the ELDC—ensuring children receive exceptional care while student-parents and future educators thrive. We are deeply grateful for your commitment to our community!