Students at Wright State aren’t the only ones on campus receiving an acclaimed education. Recently,
Mini University, the campus’ child care center, was re-accredited by the prestigious National Association
for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
As the leading organization for early childhood professionals, NAEYC’s accreditation is both esteemed
and difficult to achieve. However, after two days of observation from a NAEYC representation, Mini
University showed that it, and its 200 students, is above par.
“We’re always ready,” stated Linda Converse, an Education Coordinator. “We have our best practices
every day.”
Mini University is divided into different levels depending on the age of children, and is designed so that
each group is receiving the optimal education and opportunities for their age level.
“It’s an education focus as well as daycare, even down to toddlers,” said Sarah Cannon, Mini University’s
Team Marketing Coordinator.
Mini University does an exceptional job of teaching even its youngest students. “There are no high chairs
or bouncy seats,” said Education Coordinator Cassandra Copeland. “They can explore their environment
in a multi-sensory hands on way.”
With the tiniest of chairs for the smallest infants and a ‘no shoes allowed’ requirement for adults to enter
the rooms, even the youngest of infants can explore their respective room, as per the Resources for Infant
Educarers (RIE) philosophy. Students’ names and pictures label their possessions, teaching them name
association; words in languages from students’ respective cultures adorn the walls and doors; and the
outdoor greenhouse provides the opportunity for children to care for, grow, and enjoy plants such as
broccoli, cauliflower, and lettuce.
Although the NAEYC accreditation will not re-occur for another 5 years, the center is devoted to
the upkeep of their teachers’ abilities and growth, as all teachers are required to take professional
development classes.
With small class sizes and an outstanding curriculum, the Mini University has something to offer for all
parents. The center is open from 6:00am to 6:00pm Monday through Friday.
The Mini University offers opportunities to learn about child development for students who are studying
for degrees such as Early Child Development and Psychology. Interested students should contact the
Mini University about these substitute teacher positions.
Additionally, students who have children of their own have the opportunity to have financial aid provide
for their Mini University needs. This aid is offered through the financial aid office, and need will be
determined by the FAFSA.
For more information about the Mini University, visit miniuniversity.net or call 937-775-4070.
