About
How We Work
At Valley Child Development Center, we are dedicated to creating a nurturing, stimulating and welcoming environment for all children. Our unique programs incorporate a variety of educational theories, while always keeping the child’s best interest in mind and allowing for hands-on, experiential learning. To find out more about us, keep reading or feel free to get in touch.
Mission Statement
Quality Child Care
From language and literacy development to social skills and creative expression, the children at Valley Child Development Center are constantly being exposed to new activities and environments in which to thrive. We build on the strengths and interests of each child to help build a solid foundation where they can develop their futures. Get in touch to learn more about us.
Our Team.
Our History
Valley Pre School opened its doors in the summer of 1975. The school was located in the Hillcrest Building on North 8th Street in Clinton, Indiana. Norma Zell had been approached by the Mental Health Association to open a day care center in Clinton. They felt there was a real need. The cost was $5/day. Mrs Terry Bonwitz was the first director and the first class had between 10-15 students.
In May of 1977, the school closed because of our inability to meet Board of Health regulations and the lack of a lease.
In January 1978, the school reopened on North 7th Street and was licensed for 33 students. In 1979 we became a United Way Agency. With the help of United Way and lots of volunteer efforts the school was able to continue operations.
In October 1988, Valley Pre School moved into the Wellness Center (currently the physical therapy department) in the current Valley Professionals Building on South Main Street and was licensed for 40 students. In February 1994 the name was changed to Valley Day Care.
Valley Day Care was forced to find a new facility due to increasing rent and outgrowing the facility at the Wellness Center. A long- range plan was developed and capital funding was sought. Valley Day Care was awarded grants from Step Ahead ($40,000), Vermillion County Community Foundation ($20,000), the Wabash Valley Community Foundation ($40,000) and the Lilly Endowment ($125,000) and secured a mortgage of $200,000. And in March of 1997, the Board accepted the deed to the former high school cafeteria building on Blackman Street. Thus, began a year-long interior demolition/remodeling effort. The new facility was made possible by donations of countless hours from staff, board members and community volunteers and additional financial donations and gifts.
In 1998, Valley Day Care became a Vocational Child Care site. That program was ended after one year due to resource requirements. In 1998, Valley Day Care began providing school-age before/after school and summer programs. In 1999, work was completed on a new playground facility and additional interior improvements have been made, many funded by grants and donations. Also, in April 1999, meals and snacks were no longer vended and a cook was hired with all meals prepared on-site.
In 2010, Valley changed its name to Valley Child Development Center to better reflect the services provided and align with our mission.