The Franklin Early Childhood Center was fortunate enough to receive a visit from state Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester on Thursday, Dec. 2. The Commissioner has made visiting schools across the state a priority and last Thursday he toured the ECC, greeting staff, parents and most importantly, students. Dr. Chester is a teacher at heart and asked insightful questions regarding the different programs and classroom options available at the Franklin. The Commissioner had high praise for the program in terms of curriculum, teaching and physical plant. He recognized that the ECC offers a model for blending services to support students and families in the critical early years of development. 

During his tour, Commissioner Chester visited the North Suburban Child and Family Resource Network (NSCFRN, located on the lower level of the Franklin), which provides children and families with educational play and family support groups for children ranging in age from birth to 5 years. Dr. Chester was particularly interested to hear how the ECC collaborates with early intervention and helps families and children transition into the public school. Franklin Early Childhood Director Jenny Corduck highlighted the benefits of a vibrant early childhood education program and underscored the ongoing need for a quality early childhood experience. Commissioner Chester congratulated Melrose Public Schools for building out such a quality program to serve the needs of children and parents in such a comprehensive and diverse manner. Ms. Corduck thanked the Commissioner for his kind words and inspiration he provides to schools and districts across the state.