Wesley Community Centers opens STEAM-focused early learning center in Savannah

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Wesley Community Centers of Savannah celebrated the grand opening of its Early Learning Center and STEAM Space for Kidz on Thursday at 5 p.m.

Tammy A. K. Mixon Calderon, executive director of Wesley Community Centers Inc., said the project began taking shape years ago and that the center aims to serve children ages 2 and 3.

“They will be able to enhance their cognitive skills as they develop a pattern to think logically and critically, which they will need to make good executive function decisions, as they delve into age-appropriate learning in science, technology, engineer, art, and math, better known as STEAM,” said Mixon Calderon.

The building includes classrooms, a shared space for children, an outdoor classroom and a playground area.

“Everything that they take care of from the front to the back to the playground is a learnable, teachable moment through STEAM principles,” Mixon Calderon said. “We want our children who come to us to be ready so that they can think critically and logically and use their executive functions so they can make good decisions as they move forward in their educational journey,” Mixon Calderon said.

Mixon Calderon said the idea for the renovation originated during the COVID-19 pandemic. She says the organization launched a capital campaign to fund the renovation, with planning intensifying in 2024.

“We had an entire village to help us,” Mixon Calderon said. “But mainly Alair Homes Savannah and Greenline Architect were the two that helped mastermind to put it together to make it look how it looks now.”

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, who serves as president of Wesley’s Board of Directors, was unable to attend the event in person. His remarks were played in a pre-recorded video.

In the video, Johnson thanked the organization’s board members, donors, supporters and members of Wesley’s faith community. Johnson also noted that the opening marks a milestone but not an end point.

“Opening these doors is not the end of the vision,” Johnson said. “It’s really the beginning of an even greater responsibility. We will continue to need our village to help us sustain this work, expand this reach, and further the vision.”

Mixon Calderon said the center still has openings, particularly for 3-year-olds.

Families can learn more at www.WesleySav.org or by calling 912-236-4226.