Step Forward hosts grand opening and ribbon cutting at Memphis Early Learning Center

Step Forward proudly marked a milestone moment with the grand opening of its newest Early Learning Center in Brooklyn, Ohio. The event brought together local leaders, families, community partners, and advocates in a celebration of growth, opportunity, and the shared commitment to giving children the strongest possible start.

The Memphis Early Learning Center is the latest expansion of Step Forward’s efforts to reach more children and families through Head Start, a comprehensive program that supports school readiness, family well-being, and lifelong success. With its warm, modern classrooms and inviting spaces for learning and play, the center is designed to foster development while reflecting the needs and strengths of the Memphis community. It features six Head Start classrooms, serving children ages 3-5, and one Early Head Start classroom, which serves children birth to age three.

Located at 10991 Memphis Avenue on Cleveland’s west side, the new center replaces the former Willard site and offers children and families a brighter, more modern environment for learning and growth. The facility was thoughtfully designed to meet the developmental needs of young children while providing families with essential wraparound support.

“This opening is more than just a new building,” said Dr. Jacklyn Chisholm, Step Forward’s President & CEO. “It’s a reflection of what’s possible when a community prioritizes its youngest residents. Thousands of children in Cuyahoga County are eligible for Head Start but remain unserved. This new location reduces transportation barriers and brings life-changing services closer to home for more families.”

One of the most heartwarming highlights of the day was the children’s song performance. After weeks of practice, the children stood at the front of the room with pride and joy, sharing a moment that reminded everyone of why this work is so important. Their voices filled the room and served as a powerful symbol of the potential that Head Start nurtures every day.

“Our children are the heartbeat of this work,” Dr. Thea Wilson, Step Forward's Vice President of Children and Families, said. “Seeing them sing with such confidence and happiness reinforced what we already know. When children feel safe, supported, and seen, they shine.”

The celebration also featured powerful remarks from several distinguished guests and community leaders. Step Forward President and CEO Dr. Jacklyn Chisholm welcomed attendees with her inspiring vision for the future of early childhood education. Step Forward Board Chair Judge Michael Ryan spoke about the program’s deep impact across Cuyahoga County. Additional remarks were delivered by Mayor Ron Van Kirk of the City of Brooklyn, Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne, Cuyahoga County Councilman Martin Sweeney, and Dr. Thea Wilson, Step Forward’s Vice President of Children and Families. A representative from the office of Congressman Max Miller also joined the celebration to show federal support for this important work. Their collective voices highlighted the critical role of community partnerships in supporting children and families.

The celebration also provided an opportunity to discuss the growing challenges Head Start programs are facing nationwide. Leaders at the event also emphasized the need for continued advocacy and support to protect these essential services.

“Programs like Head Start are more than education. They are a lifeline,” Dr. Wilson added. “But they require continued investment and public support to remain strong. We’re asking our community to not only celebrate with us but to advocate with us.”

Community members who want to make a difference can visit nhsa.org/take-action to send a message to their elected officials. Sharing personal experiences about the impact of Head Start can help decision-makers understand the human impact of these services.

Families interested in enrolling their child at the Memphis Early Learning Center are encouraged to contact Step Forward’s Head Start program for more information. With high-quality early education, nutritious meals, health screenings, and family support services, Head Start provides the tools children need to succeed in school and in life, all at no cost to income-eligible families.

Step Forward Early Head Start serving children from birth to age 3 and Head Start serving Children ages 3 - 5 is enrolling for the 2024-2025 school year and is FREE for eligible families! Give your child a Head Start and enroll today!

Step Forward Head Start is hiring!

The agency is offering a sign-on bonus of $5,000 for full time employees.

Positions include teachers, family service workers, nutrition aides and more. Step Forward Head Start is looking for education staff passionate about preparing young students for the future and helping them develop a love for learning early. Take a step toward a new fulfilling career today! Learn more and apply to open positions here.