Betty J. Taylor Early Learning Academy Programs: Nurturing Lifelong Learners

The Betty J. Taylor Early Learning Academy (BJTELA) is dedicated to providing a holistic and inclusive program through effective teaching practices and collaborative partnerships. The Academy empowers children and families to become successful lifelong learners and responsible citizens within a culturally diverse community.

Mission & Values

BJTELA's core mission revolves around fostering a nurturing environment where children thrive academically, culturally, and socially. The academy's commitment to holistic development is evident in its various programs and initiatives, all designed to create a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Key Program Features

Several factors distinguish BJTELA and contribute to its effectiveness:

Low Teacher-to-Child Ratio: BJTELA maintains a lower teacher-to-child ratio compared to state standards. This deliberate choice ensures that each child receives individualized attention and support, enabling teachers to effectively address their unique educational goals. The low ratio helps meet the individual educational goals of children and their families.
Cultural Immersion: Children at BJTELA have daily exposure to Tulalip Native American language and culture. This immersion fosters a sense of identity, cultural pride, and connection to the community's rich heritage.
Hands-on Learning: Teachers at BJTELA prioritize hands-on learning experiences. This approach encourages active participation, exploration, and discovery, allowing children to develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Teachers promote hands on learning while helping children develop critical thinking.
Family Engagement: BJTELA recognizes the crucial role of families in a child's education. The academy actively encourages family engagement and participation through various programs and initiatives. Betty J. Taylor Early Learning Academy encourages family engagement participation.
Montessori Philosophy: BJTELA integrates the child-centered Montessori philosophy and curriculum, aiming to educate the whole child. This approach emphasizes independence, self-directed learning, and a prepared environment that fosters exploration and discovery.

Curriculum and Educational Approach

BJTELA's curriculum is designed to cultivate capable and confident children grounded in Lushootseed language, cultural values, teachings, academics, and life skills. The program recognizes the importance of strong families, community bonds, traditional lifeways, and a coordinated early learning education system in shaping well-rounded individuals. The ultimate goal is to nurture children who are lifelong learners, well-prepared for future success.

Tulalip Tribes TERO Vocational Training Center (TVTC)

The TERO Vocational Training Center (TVTC) is a training organization under the Tulalip Tribes Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO). Its focus is training Native Americans and their families allowing them to secure family wage positions in the construction field. The training facility has been in operation since 2002 and is accredited through both Renton Technical College and South Seattle Community College.

Funding and Support

BJTELA and related initiatives have benefited from various grants and donations, demonstrating community support for early childhood education:

Bill and Melinda Gates Grant (2011): The Tulalip Foundation received a $40,000 grant to fund the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Tulalip Tribes, Tulalip Foundation, Marysville School District, and Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (2011): A $10,000 donation was provided to purchase equipment for a new Career and Technical Education class at Heritage High School.
Marysville School District: The Marysville School District donated $10,000 towards the software development to track Tulalip students in the Marysville School District. The software is to look at the whole student and gather information from surveys, the Tulalip Youth Education Department, and the Marysville School District.

Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF)

The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) is a federal program that supports child care services for eligible families. Administered by the Department of Health and Human Services by the Administration for Children and Families, CCDF allows tribes to design and implement culturally relevant child care programs that meet the unique needs of their communities. These programs can include direct child care services, quality improvement initiatives, and infrastructure development.

Extended Care and CCDF Eligibility

Enrolled students at BJTELA who require Extended Care may be eligible for CCDF assistance. Families can contact their family advocate to fill out the appropriate application. Students must be eligible for a CCDF grant to enroll in childcare.

CCDF Requirements

To qualify for CCDF assistance, families must meet certain criteria:

Residency: Must reside within Snohomish County, and children must attend child care within the county.
Licensed Provider: Child care providers must be licensed through Washington State. A copy of the provider’s license and a completed W-9 are required before approving assistance.
Income Eligibility: Note: Our CCDF plan does not have income eligibility.

Enrollment Information

To enroll a child in the BJTELA program, parents or guardians must complete an application and provide the necessary documentation.

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