Support the Early Learning Community
The Pacific University Early Learning Community is a preschool through second-grade demonstration school on our Forest Grove Campus. At the ELC, young children develop their early skills as critical thinkers and joyous, self-directed learners in a nurturing environment under the guidance of master teachers. Furthermore, the ELC serves as a model learning environment for future teachers in Pacific’s College of Education, as well as for Pacific students who will be future healthcare and social service providers serving children.
When you support the Pacific University Early Learning Community, you help local children get the best start in their schooling and you advance best practices in early childhood education in our communities through teacher preparation and research. We deeply appreciate your contributions to the wellbeing and growth of our young students. Find ways you can help support the ELC below.
Early Learning Community Excellence Fund
The Early Learning Community Excellence Fund provides operational support for the areas of greatest need at the ELC, which may include support for teachers and teaching assistants, learning materials, enrichment opportunities for children, general operations and more.
Early Learning Community Endowed Scholarship Fund
The ELC community is dedicated to equal access to education regardless of economic circumstances. The Early Learning Community Scholarship Fund offers perpetual support for scholarships for children from economically disadvantaged families to attend the ELC.
Brim Family Outdoor Learning Center (Cedar Classroom)
Opened in 2019, the Brim Family Outdoor Learning Center, also known as the Cedar Classroom, provides a state-of-the-art nature-based learning environment for ELC students. Featuring a large cedar tree, bridge and waterway, natural climbing structures, and mix of natural elements, it is a space for young students to learn and grow through play and exploration of the natural world. Originally funded by the family of community and civic leader Evona Brim, this fund provides perpetual support for the operations, infrastructure, upkeep and programming in the Cedar Classroom.
Zane Harris Playroom Fund
Zane’s Playroom is learning environment adjacent to the Early Learning Community that is open, for free, for any members of the Forest Grove community. Filled with developmentally appropriate learning materials and staffed by students in Pacific’s College of Education, the playroom serves children 3 and under and their families. Zane Harris died in a tragic drowning accident just days after his first birthday. His family established the Zane Harris Playroom Fund in his memory, hoping to replicate the type of parent-child play area that Zane enjoyed in his young life.