Harris Early Learning Center is the reality of a vision Elmer and Glenda Harris had to bring quality early care and education to the Birmingham downtown business district. From this vision grew a unique collaboration between local city government, the downtown business community and higher education through Auburn University. As of June, 2012, Auburn University became the owner of the Center. It is managed by a PhD level director who also serves as faculty in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Auburn University.
The Center is accredited with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which defines and enforces high standards of quality in childcare such as training and qualifications of teachers and teacher/child ratios.
