As backpacks were zipped, classroom doors opened and families returned for a new year of learning, Fuller Center’s campuses were filled with the excitement and possibility that accompany the start of a new school year. Across Early Learning, Fuller Academy, Out-of-School Time and the growing Teen Leadership Program, students returned to safe, supportive environments designed to help them learn, build confidence, and thrive.
This year, Fuller Center will serve nearly 1,000 children and 700 families through a continuum of care that supports children from infancy through young adulthood. The beginning of the school year serves as a reminder that Fuller Center’s impact extends well beyond a single program, creating pathways that help children and families grow together over time.
That impact was visible from the very first day of school as several recent Fuller Center VPK graduates entered kindergarten at Fuller Academy, continuing their educational journey within a community that has supported them since early childhood.
“The start of a new school year is always a powerful reminder of what is possible when children and families are surrounded by care, opportunity and community support,” said Eric Roby, CEO of Fuller Center. “At Fuller Center, we are proud to walk alongside our students from early childhood through the teen years, helping them build confidence, discover their strengths and reach their full potential.”
Building Strong Foundations in Early Learning
For Fuller Center’s youngest learners, each day begins with curiosity, creativity, and care.
Open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., the Early Learning Program provides children with a nurturing environment where they develop the academic, social, and emotional foundations needed for future success. Through exploration, play-based learning and intentional instruction, children gain confidence, independence and a sense of belonging while preparing for kindergarten and beyond.
The program serves infants as young as six weeks old through pre-kindergarten students, supporting families during a critical stage of child development while helping children build the skills they will carry throughout their educational journey.
Nicole Parker-Fulton, Senior Center Director, shared her excitement for “our new school year journey filled with creativity, imagination and love,” noting that it will be “a magical year watching the children learn as they explore, investigate, discover and create.”
Continuing the Journey at Fuller Academy
The first day of school at Fuller Academy brought bright smiles, classroom celebrations and the excitement of new friendships.
The elementary school provides a challenging and nurturing learning environment where academic achievement, character development and personal growth are supported through personalized instruction, joyful learning, and strong family engagement.
For some students, the transition into kindergarten represented more than the start of a new school year. As former Fuller Center VPK students, they entered Fuller Academy already connected to a support system that has helped guide their growth since early childhood.
Dr. Jacqueline Berlin, Fuller Academy Principal, described the beginning of the year as filled with “energy, enthusiasm and joy for learning.” Teachers and staff worked together to create a welcoming environment where every student feels safe, valued, and ready to succeed.
Learning Beyond the School Day
Fuller Center’s commitment to student success extends beyond traditional school hours through its Out-of-School Time Program, which serves children ages 5 to 12.
The program provides a safe, structured, and enriching environment where students receive academic support, participate in engaging activities, build healthy friendships, and develop important life skills. By offering programming during afterschool hours and school breaks, Fuller Center helps ensure children remain connected, supported and engaged throughout the year.
This extended support allows working parents to maintain reliable childcare while giving students additional opportunities to learn, grow, and strengthen their confidence outside the classroom.
A Growing Investment in Teen Leadership
One of the most significant areas of growth this year is Fuller Center’s Teen Leadership Program, which serves young people ages 14 to 22 across both campuses.
The program focuses on mentorship, leadership development, career exploration, employability skills, community service, and real-world experiences that help young people prepare for adulthood. Through meaningful relationships and hands-on opportunities, participants build confidence, develop practical skills, and explore pathways toward future success.
Building on recent momentum, Fuller Center is making an unprecedented investment in the expansion of the program. Plans include providing up to 250 days of support each year, along with direct transportation from area high schools to Fuller Center campuses.
The expansion reflects a growing commitment to serving older youth during a critical period of development. By surrounding teenagers and young adults with mentorship, guidance and opportunity, Fuller Center is helping them navigate important educational, personal and career decisions while building strong foundations for the future.
Help Children Start the School Year Strong
As a new school year begins, thousands of children across our community are stepping into classrooms with big dreams and limitless potential. At Fuller Center, we are committed to ensuring that every child and family has the support they need to succeed, from early childhood through young adulthood. That work is only possible because of caring community members who invest in our mission.
We invite you to be part of this change by supporting Fuller Center’s Back-to-School Appeal. Your gift helps provide educational resources, enriching programs, mentorship opportunities, and critical family support services that empower children to thrive throughout the year. Together, we can create brighter futures and stronger families, one child at a time.
Donate today and help us embrace, educate, and empower the next generation.
