Charlottesville Early Learning Center

CELC STUDENTS & FAMILIES HUB

Practical Information for Current Students & Families and Key Staff Contacts

At CELC, we believe that strong partnerships with families help every student thrive. This Hub is your one-stop shop for the resources, tools, and information you need to stay connected and support your child’s journey through Pre-K.

We’ve gathered the most helpful links and updates in one place, so you can spend less time searching and more time engaging with your child’s education. Explore the sections below, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your school or the division if you have any questions. We’re here to help!

To report an absence at CELC, please call or contact:

Virginia Zarate

434-245-2415

EMAIL MS ZARATE

Attendance notifications for unreported absences go out at 9:15 am for elementary schools

Pre-K Menu

Coming soon!

Transportation

Staff Directory

Coming soon!

Student Health

Family Handbook

Coming soon!

Volunteering

School Safety

Logins & Tools

What Parent Can Expect From School

Costs

Your child will attend high-quality, free preschool.

Provided Materials

Your child will have the following school supplies provided: backpack, nap mat, and blanket.

Meals

Your child will receive free, nutritious breakfast, snacks, and lunch each day.

Communications

You will receive regular communication from your child’s teacher and a weekly newsletter from the principal, Dr. Korab.

Get Involved

You will be invited to participate in your child’s day/learning at least once a month.

Family

You can participate in family workshops.

What School Expects From Parents

Ensure your child is at school on time, every day, with the exception of illness.

You are expected to maintain good attendance to keep your child’s spot.

The Importance of Preschool Attendance

While an occasional absence for illness or family time is totally normal, building the habit of showing up every day sets the foundation for a child's entire school career. Here is why preschool attendance matters so much.

Early literacy and math skills:

Preschool isn't just babysitting; it’s where foundational concepts are introduced. Missing school means missing the daily, repetitive exposure to letter sounds, counting games, and vocabulary-building stories. Studies show that kids with poor attendance in preschool are significantly more likely to struggle with reading and math by the time they hit kindergarten and first grade.

Feeling confident socially:

Learning how to be a human in a community happens in preschool. Kids learn how to share, resolve conflicts, manage their emotions, and make friends. A child who attends off and on is always trying to catch up on the social dynamics of the classroom. It can make them feel like an outsider, increasing school anxiety because the routine and the friendships don't feel secure.

The comfort of a daily routine:

For a three- or four-year-old, the world is big and unpredictable, and a daily school routine helps children feel more secure. Going to school every day also normalizes the transition from home to school. If attendance is hit-or-miss, every school morning can turn into a dramatic power struggle because the routine hasn't locked in.

Starting great habits early:

Attendance habits formed in preschool are incredibly sticky. Research shows that children who are chronically absent in preschool are likely to remain chronically absent in kindergarten and first grade. By establishing a "we show up" family culture early, you prevent having to break a bad habit when the grades and stakes get higher.

Attendance matters! Learn More

Stay in Touch

Front Office Administrative Technician

Virginia Zarate (Habla Espanol)

Phone: 434-245-2412

Email the Front Desk Join ParentSquare

CELC STUDENTS & FAMILIES HUB

Pre-K Menu

Staff Directory

Family Handbook