History

The College of Charleston offers a unique experience for young children and university students at the N.E. Miles Early Childhood Development Center . Our nationally accredited program has served as the demonstration program and laboratory school for the College as part of the School of Education since its founding under the administration of President Theodore Stern in 1974. Our building is named for Dr. Nathan Edgar Miles, a College of Charleston alumnus and pediatric ophthalmologist whose generous bequest made possible the total renovation of our building which was re-dedicated on November 1, 2002.

The importance of high quality early childhood education is well documented in the research literature and receiving increased attention from media and legislators. Major indicators of quality programs include highly qualified staff, low adult-child ratios, and a rich and diverse learning environment, all of which can be found at ECDC. Our inclusive program accommodates approximately fifty-five children aged two through kindergarten each year.

Our director, Katherine Houser, holds a B.S. in Elementary/Early Childhood Education, a M.Ed in Special Education, and a M.Ed in Administration and Supervision. Our four lead teachers have master's degrees in early childhood education. Five graduate assistants (GAs) form the core of our assistant teacher staff each semester, complemented by up to 20 undergraduate and graduate teaching assistants (TAs) from a variety of majors, primarily early childhood education, elementary education, and special education.

We enjoy a close working relationship with many departments, faculty, administrative and support staff from the College of Charleston, the Charleston County School District (CCSD), and other early childhood programs in the LowCountry and across the state. Our center welcomes many visitors, observers, practicum students, volunteers, and researchers each year.

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