Michigan City, IN- Paladin is proud to announce several significant achievements in its commitment to improving outcomes for young children in Laporte County.

Lilly Endowment Early Years Initiative Award Paladin’s Early Childhood Education Programs are honored to be among the 68 organizations awarded grants through Early Learning Indiana’s Early Years Initiative. Made possible by $60 million in Lilly Endowment Inc. funding, this initiative addresses the developmental needs of infants and toddlers while equipping families with resources to support learning from birth to age three.
The grants are focused on four key priorities:
• Parenting Preparation and Support: Strengthening families through education and home visits.
• Child Care Access and Effectiveness: Expanding access to quality care.
• Early Detection and Intervention: Identifying and addressing developmental needs.
• Early Language and Literacy: Promoting foundational skills through language strategies.

“We are committed to ensuring that Indiana’s youngest learners have the supportive environments and experiences they need for lifelong success,” said Maureen Weber, president and CEO of Early Learning Indiana.

National Accreditation Earned Paladin’s Imagination Station is thrilled to announce that they have once again achieved accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the gold standard in early childhood education. This prestigious recognition places Paladin’s Early Education Programs at the top level of early learning programs and solidifies their status as the only nationally accredited, Indiana Paths to QUALITY™ Level 4, early learning center in LaPorte County, Indiana.

This accomplishment is significant for our vibrant community, showcasing Michigan City as a place where quality education begins in early childhood. NAEYC accreditation is reserved for programs that meet rigorous standards in curriculum, teaching, health and safety, and family engagement. By earning this distinction, Imagination Station reaffirms our commitment to providing infants and toddlers with the best possible start in life on the path to college or a career.

Building Impact Cohort Paladin’s Head Start education manager, Mrs. Baylock, has been accepted into Early Learning Indiana’s Building Impact Cohort 2, a program designed to enhance classroom practices and strengthen developmental outcomes for children. This initiative empowers early education leaders to implement strategies that enrich learning environments, deploy innovative curricula, and foster professional development for educators.
“Being part of this cohort allows us to further our mission to provide high-quality early learning experiences,” said Robert Fillmore, Head Start Director. “We’re excited for Mrs. Baylock to have the opportunity to bring back new approaches that will positively impact our educators and the children we serve.”

Through these initiatives, Paladin’s Early Childhood Education Programs are poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families in LaPorte, Indiana. Families seeking a nurturing, high-quality learning environment for their infants and toddlers are encouraged to apply soon. Space is limited and waitlists now exist for State vouchers (CCDF and OMWPK) so don’t wait to secure your spot in this nationally recognized program.