Mighty Oaks Early Learning Center Opens New Location in Rochester

Mighty Oaks Early Learning Center has officially opened its doors at the former Pinewood Elementary site in southeast Rochester, New York, marking a significant milestone in its mission to provide early childhood education. The relocation is part of a broader effort to expand access to quality education for families in the community, especially those with low incomes.

A New Beginning for Early Childhood Education

On a recent Tuesday, local leaders, including Kent Pekel, Superintendent of Rochester Public Schools, gathered to cut the ribbon at the new facility. This event symbolizes the start of a new chapter for the early learning center, which serves children aged three to five. Pekel emphasized the importance of the move, stating, “This is an incredible investment in our community. We want to go further with expanding early childhood offerings, but this is a very substantive step forward.”

The transition to the new site is a direct response to the district’s commitment to increasing the number of early childhood seats available. The former Pinewood Elementary had been a cornerstone of the community for generations, but as educational needs evolved, so too did the district’s approach. Last summer, families bid farewell to Pinewood Elementary, which has now merged with Longfellow Elementary in a newly rebuilt facility.

Facilities and Features Adapted for Young Learners

Mighty Oaks Early Learning Center offers a variety of programs, including half-day and full-day classes, as well as general education and special needs programming. Significant modifications were made to the new building to accommodate the needs of young learners. Erica Schumacher, Director of Early Learning for Rochester Public Schools, highlighted the importance of creating a child-friendly environment: “We need to think about this as if you were walking on your knees around the building.”

Improvements included lowering amenities for easier access, expanding the parking lot, and constructing a new playground at the back of the building. These updates ensure that children can explore and learn in a safe and engaging setting.

As part of the relocation process, the district plans to sell the previous Mighty Oaks building, which had been located several miles south along Marion Road. The new location places the center in a more accessible area, surrounded by families seeking early childhood education options. This strategic move has already shown positive results, with enrollment numbers rising as interest in the center increases.

“Enrollment is already up because this is located in a place where we know there are young families with young children,” Pekel noted, reflecting the center’s successful integration into the neighborhood.

The opening of the Mighty Oaks Early Learning Center not only marks a new beginning for its students but also reinforces the commitment of Rochester Public Schools to provide quality education and support to the community’s youngest members.