New director, fresh vision: Elizabeth Higgins to lead Elmhurst preschool, now in its 36th year
Bethel Learning Center of Elmhurst announces Elizabeth Higgins will be taking the role of preschool director.
Since joining the center in 2021, Higgins has taught children in each age group, collaborated with, and mentored, teachers, spearheaded a nature-driven reimagining of the outdoor play space and updated classroom spaces with more natural and inspiring elements.
Higgins also redesigned the school’s website to improve the user experience and accessibility and launched a monthly newsletter.
The play-based learning at the foundation of Bethel Learning Center is the perfect fit for Higgins. She says, “I have seen how play-based education fosters growth, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning in children. I am eager to bring my leadership skills, commitment to fostering a nurturing environment, and my passion for early childhood education to this role, ensuring continued growth and success of Bethel.”
Previous roles for Higgins have included teaching at a Head Start preschool in Florida and at Chicago Child Care Society of Chicago. Higgins graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education.
According to BLC teacher, Stephanie Porter, “BLC is so lucky to have Elizabeth stepping into our executive director position. I cannot think of someone who is better suited for this role and I know she will take good care of not only the children, but the staff as well. She has become somewhat of a mentor to me since I began teaching at Bethel and I have learned so much from her already. She is incredibly passionate about BLC and I am looking forward to seeing her many visions for our school come to life!”
About Bethel Learning Center:
Founded in 1989, Bethel Learning Center is a play-based preschool for children ages 2 to 5, where learning is driven by curiosity, creativity, and discovery. They believe children learn best through purposeful play, which fosters essential social, emotional, and cognitive skills in a nurturing and engaging environment. Through hands-on activities, interactive experiences, and child-led exploration, children develop confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. Experienced educators support each child’s individual growth, creating environments where they can thrive.
For more information, go to www.blcelmhurst.org.