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Child Development Center recognized for special needs care

Child Development Center staff (left to right): Brenda Dumas, Lezlie Taylor, Jervetta Bradley, Laura Abraham, Michelle Enriquez and Nikki Allen.

The Child Development Center in the Delta State University College of Education and Human Sciences has been identified by the Early Years Network (EYN) Special Needs Division as one of only two highly-qualified centers serving special needs in the state of Mississippi.

“The Child Development Center is honored to be considered a special needs endorsed center and looks forward to the partnership with the Early Years Network as we promote and improve inclusion,” said Laura Abraham, director of preschool programs.

The CDC was selected and recognized for this endorsement above others for their exemplary staff knowledge throughout the credential process and for the inclusion practices observed within the classrooms.

“We have been using a lot more visual aids to make sure every child is learning at the same level,” said Lezlie Taylor, an instructor for the CDC, while speaking about implementing specific educational techniques within the classrooms.

“I appreciate the work that the CDC staff put into this training and anticipate an excellent partnership with the Early Years Network as we attend to the special needs of children,” said Cheryl Cummins, director of field experiences and coordinator of child development programming. 

The CDC will now be considered a special needs endorsed center and will receive stipend funding through EYN to purchase materials and resources to promote inclusion. Additionally, EYN will invite other centers from around the state to tour the CDC as a model for special needs inclusion.

“I commend the CDC staff on accomplishing this milestone, which enables them to deliver specialized services to children and their families,” said Dr. Leslie Griffin, dean of the COEHS at Delta State.

Learn more about the center at https://www.deltastate.edu/college-of-education/family-and-consumer-sciences/hamilton-white-child-development-center-2.