For over three decades, the Rosen JCC Learning Center has made a lasting impact on young students through its innovative and engaging curriculum.

For over 30 years, the Learning Center at the Rosen JCC has been a cornerstone of high-quality early childhood education, inspiring young minds and laying a strong foundation for future success. With a commitment to fostering creativity, critical thinking and academic excellence, the Learning Center has empowered generations of children to grow, learn and thrive.

“We believe the 0-to-5 age range is the most critical period in a child’s development,” says Ofira Bondorowsky, CEO of the Rosen JCC. “Children will need to be strong problem solvers in the future, capable of thinking creatively and critically. Our goal is to provide a solid academic foundation while fostering these essential skills during their preschool years. While we cover the fundamentals—ABCs, 1-2-3s and other core early education concepts—we go beyond the basics. We immerse children in the arts, introduce them to diverse cultural events and performances, and implement a dynamic STEAM-focused curriculum designed to spark curiosity and foster critical thinking from the very start.” 

The Learning Center offers year-round programs for infants, toddlers, 2-year-olds, 3-year-olds and pre-K, with multiple classes in each age group. While affiliated with the Rosen JCC, all faiths and ethnicities are welcome, and the goal is to nurture creativity, exploration and a love of learning in a safe and warm environment.

“People are often surprised to learn that most of our students are not Jewish,” Bondorowsky says. “While we introduce children and their families to Jewish holidays and traditions, our focus is cultural, not religious. We emphasize universal Jewish values—such as caring for others, respecting the environment and honoring our elders—that resonate with all families. Our student body is remarkably diverse, with children from a wide range of faiths and backgrounds, creating a vibrant and inclusive community.”

While parents have many options for their children’s education, the Rosen JCC stands out in several key ways, beginning with its brand-new STEAM lab. Made possible through a generous gift from Dr. Phillips Charities, the lab features a hydroponics system for teaching students how to grow herbs and vegetables, sensory tables and learning stations for age-appropriate science experiments. Future plans include adding an aquaponics system and an outdoor classroom.

“The STEAM lab offers children the chance to engage in hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering, arts and math,” Bondorowsky says. “Not only does this prepare them for a successful transition into elementary school, helping them achieve academic and developmental milestones, but it also fosters a positive association with STEAM learning from an early age.”

As part of the community center, children at the Learning Center have access to a wide range of enriching experiences. They enjoy assemblies and performances throughout the year in the Rosen Event Center, and benefit from a full-sized gymnasium for physical education and recess, especially when weather conditions make the outdoor playground unsuitable. In addition, the center offers a covered pavilion and versatile multipurpose rooms that support a variety of educational and recreational activities. These spaces enhance the learning environment, providing children with diverse opportunities to grow and thrive. 

The year-round preschool program transitions into a summer camp experience in June and July, featuring themed weeks, a regular schedule of performances, water play and hands-on activities. 

“We offer a variety of enrichment programs, allowing parents to register their children for activities like ballet, soccer, karate and tumbling in the afternoons, alongside their core preschool day,” Bondorowsky says. The Learning Center also provides flexible scheduling, with part-time and full-time options, including early and extended care from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., ensuring convenience and flexibility for busy families.

Once students graduate from the preschool, their families often stay connected to the community center. The Rosen JCC offers a variety of programs for school-aged children, including after-school programs and camps. It’s easy to see why so many families develop long-term ties to the community—and why staff take pride in contributing to children’s growth.

“It’s rewarding to watch the growth and engagement continue as children move from our preschool to becoming active members of the broader community center,” Bondorowsky says. “One day, they’re toddlers, and the next, they’re racing into the community center for after-school programs. In fact, the Rosen JCC Learning Center has been rooted in this community for so long that some of our former preschool students are now parents sending their own kids here. It’s incredible to see the generations come full circle and to know that we continue to serve as a hub for families through every stage of their lives.”

Rosen JCC Learning Center
Orlando
(407) 387-5330
eclc.rosenjcc.org