JOPLIN, Mo. – Wearing caps and gowns, 11 graduates came to a stage to receive their diplomas. But these graduates aren’t heading for medical school or college – they’re going to kindergarten! It’s graduation day at Freeman Learning Center (FLC), and parents are proud. 

“Freeman Learning Center has given my son an opportunity to thrive in a loving environment while creating the foundation needed for his education,” said Jessica Liberty, Freeman Health System Manager Infection Prevention & Control. On Thursday, July 28, her son, Liam graduated with 10 other students, getting a certificate and handshake from Freeman Health System President and Chief Executive Officer Paula Baker.

“Freeman Learning Center is much more than a daycare center,” said Baker. “It offers structured play that engages children to help them grow intellectually, emotionally and socially. The vibrant environment is designed to stimulate children’s minds and foster a sense of curiosity and wonder.” 

“They have integrated core concepts into his daily routine by intentional ‘toys,’ said Liberty. “This has allowed him to play and learn at the same time. His behavior disorders have added a level of complexity to his care, but the expertise and educational background of the staff at FLC have made this the very best fit for my son. We truly couldn’t have survived the last few years without FLC. They are intentional, compassionate and loving to my son.”

Freeman Learning Center opened in August 2020 welcoming eight children at the start from infants to five years old. The number of students has grown to 105. 

“We use an educational program called The Creative Curriculum that provides continuity from one age group to the next,” said Freeman Learning Center Director Josh Sharp. “The children transition smoothly as they grow and progress, moving from the baby room to the 1-year-old room, all the way up through the 5-year-old room.” 

Parent Brittany Garrett said the FLC learning environment is optimal for all children, and staff treat children with respect while balancing all personalities and emotions the come with caring for children. 

“We have loved all the varieties in learning. Not only the ABCs and 123s, but the outdoor explorations, center play time and all of the wonderful crafts!” said Garrett. “I wish we had one more year, but all good things come to an end and new adventures begin! Thank you for loving, caring and growing our baby girl!”  

“We opened Freeman Learning Center not only to provide an exceptionally rich learning environment for preschoolers but also to make their parents’ lives a little easier,” said Baker. “As a working mother, I understand that a work-life balance can be difficult to achieve and the logistics of childcare can sometimes be daunting. Our vision for Freeman Learning Center is to simplify and improve the lives of our staff, and to alleviate some of the stress involved with driving back and forth to daycare.” 

Parent Erica Messner works in Patient Accounts at Freeman and said finding the right childcare for your children can be a difficult process, but after touring FLC, she knew staff were as invested in the children as parents are.

“I know the people caring for my children while I’m at work are dedicated to keeping them educated, fed and safe,” said Erica Messner, Freeman Patient Accounts. “They often go out of their way to ensure the children’s needs are met. I will always be thankful for Freeman Health System offering childcare to their employees and for the wonderful Freeman Learning Center staff who love my children like their own.”  

Baker said in the future, Freeman Learning Center will be adding care for older children and an after-school program as well.