Mitchell Early Childhood and Family Center Welcomes New Director

Mitchell Early Childhood and Family Center, part of the YMCA of Muncie, welcomes a new Director of Youth Development, Janette Stanley.

Janette has been involved with early childhood education for over 11 years. Having received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Child Development from Ball State University, Janette taught at Ball State’s Child Study Center and Apple Tree Child Development Center. The two centers merged in 2019 to form Mitchell Early Childhood and Family Center, a unique and innovative partnership between the YMCA and Ball State University, in the renovated Mitchell Elementary, located in the Halteman Village Neighborhood.

Janette hopes to utilize her personal philosophy for children, teaching children to think creatively so they may succeed in our ever-changing world, to lead and guide the 50 full time and part time teachers at Mitchell. Janette also states, “We need to emphasize the importance of play and social emotional development, teaching children to have joy with learning and to love others and show kindness to anyone they meet.”

Mitchell applies the Reggio Emilia method of teaching, allowing children to experience innovative and inspiring approaches to early childhood education, which values the child as strong, capable, and resilient. This approach is a student-centered and constructivist self-guided curriculum that uses self-directed, experiential learning in relationship-driven environments.

About the YMCA of Muncie: The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The YMCA of Muncie has served Delaware and Kosciusko Counties since 1881, with an excellent track record of providing quality mission driven programs that enrich the lives of all people in spirit, mind and body.