Early Childhood Center and Director Cynthia Schuenke Support Alton's Youngest Learners

For Director Cynthia Schuenke, helping Alton’s youngest learners grow is rewarding work. Read what she says about the Early Childhood Center’s students, teachers, and commitment to families.

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Cynthia Schuenke.

ALTON - Alton Community Unit School District #11 offers opportunities for young kids at the Early Childhood Center, and Director Cynthia Schuenke is proud to lead the district’s youngest learners every day.

The Early Childhood Center has a preschool program as well as services for families with kids ages birth to 5. Schuenke noted that there’s “never a dull moment in a preschool,” and she loves being a part of the Alton community and helping these students grow.

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“ECC is the place to be!” Schuenke said. “Our students bring so much joy, excitement, and personality into our building every day. I love their curiosity, their honesty, their hugs, and the way the smallest things can make them so happy. Watching them grow and accomplish things they couldn't do before is incredibly rewarding. I also love watching our teachers work their magic with our students. The patience, creativity, and heart they bring to their classrooms every day is inspiring.”

Schuenke noted that the “amazing team” at the Early Childhood Center makes every day even better. While working in early childhood care isn’t always easy, these staff members are “a group of dedicated, caring, and talented people” who share a passion for supporting young learners.

Additionally, the Alton School District is dedicated to all its students and staff, which, Schuenke said, shines through in their work. She is “proud” to be a part of the district and eager to share such a caring environment with the students.

“It's rewarding to be part of a team that truly wants to make a difference for kids,” she added. “What I love most about our team is how we come together to support one another and do whatever it takes to meet the needs of our students and families. We work hard, we laugh a lot, and we celebrate the little victories that mean so much. I'm really proud of the relationships we've built and the way our staff genuinely cares about one another. It's a pretty special place to work, and I feel lucky to be part of it!”

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Schuenke and her team at the ECC will continue to support kids and families. She encourages any families who have young kids and are curious about the ECC’s programs to contact them at 618-463-2166.

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