Preschool Prom in the City Lights Up the ELC

The Early Learning Center was roaring with energy and excitement as 142 families gathered for Preschool Prom in the City—a joyful celebration that marked a milestone in our young learners’ educational journeys: their very first dance event!

“The prom was nothing but fun! I was beaming with pride watching so many families from our entire community come together to celebrate their young child’s learning in such a joyful way. Our gymnasium was filled with dancers, our hallways were filled with happy smiles, and in the words of so many families, “such a blast!”.” - Christine Fuller, ELC Director

This unforgettable evening served as the perfect culmination of our preschoolers’ studies on Buildings, Signs, and Clothing. From cityscapes and landmarks to street signs and fashion, every detail reflected their discoveries about the world around them. As families entered Main Street, students eagerly pointed out the variety of structures they proudly crafted together in class, delighted to find their photos displayed in the building windows, making their learning feel personal and alive. 

“We find that every single family event is very well organized and there is a lot of thought and effort put into these events and you can tell.” - Timothy Cichon, 1st Year Preschool Parent

Throughout the night, students engaged in a variety of hands-on, play-based experiences that intertwined academic concepts with joyful exploration. They read and followed signs around the event, supporting early literacy development in a real-world setting. At The Skyscraper Workshop, better known as the building station, they had the opportunity to experiment with structures and design, reinforcing foundational math and spatial concepts utilizing “blocks” created by families to resemble buildings. The Royal Court Creation Station gave students a chance to express their creativity while exploring clothing and self-expression as they designed their own crown to don for the evening, thanks to our local Burger King Restaurants for the generous donations of crowns.

The District 123 Early Learning Center has significantly boosted family engagement this year, 

“thanks to our dedicated space that serves as a vibrant community hub. Our evening events have been particularly successful, drawing families together for memorable experiences. Our inclusive programming celebrates the unique cultures within our community, ensuring every family feels welcome and supported, strengthening the connection between home and school.” - Erica Parus, ELC Assistant Director

Of course, no prom is complete without dancing! Students hit the dance floor with excitement as tunes from DJ Keith Wallace filled the ELC gym, moving, grooving, and celebrating alongside their families. In the Great Hall, everyone enjoyed delicious snacks graciously donated by an ELC family and took home keepsake family photo strips from the Fun Frame Tower, thanks to FunPix Photo Booth, a D123 family-owned business. More photos were snapped by families utilizing balloon decór from Monique Galloway, ELC parent with Unique Kustomz as students were honored as royalty for the evening with the use of fabulous thrones from ELC nurse Jory Yancey with Parage Event Decor & Designs. 

“Family participation is a requirement for the Preschool for All program.  Here at the ELC, it means so much more than checking a box.  Family events give students and families an amazing opportunity to connect in a fun and celebratory way. We are building a new community at the Early Learning Center, where all families are supported and valued. ” - Nicole Petschenko, ELC Instructional Coach/Family Resource Specialist 

Lisa Reusnow, mother of a D123 3rd grader, 1st grader and Preschooler commented at the conclusion of the evening, 

“Having all the families together, meeting other families and seeing them outside of the school atmosphere and seeing the kids enjoy time with their peers has been awesome!”

Preschool Prom in the City was more than just an event, it showcased the connection between learning, family, and community. We were honored to share this magical moment with our students and families, and to witness the love and joy of learning celebrated in such a meaningful and memorable way.