Coal Pit Learning Center

lic school system. In 1976, Henrico County permitted Ms. Dorothy Gallimore to reopen the building as the Coal Pit Learning Center. As the founder, she began with a mission to provide children from low-income families with the educational skills necessary to succeed in school. At the time, the poverty in the surrounding community was rampant. There were no paved roads, and many families did not have electricity, running water, or modern plumbing. The schoolhouse itself was in dire need of repair. “Ms. Dorothy”, as her students fondly refer to her, scraped up any resources she could find in an effort to save the school. Her persistence and determination to help the community was a success as she was able to gather the help and resources necessary to turn Coal Pit Learning Center into what it is today. During that time, she also helped families repair their homes and improve their living conditions. In the fall of 2010, thanks to our friends at the Rotary Club of Innsbrook and the generous support of additional donors and volunteers, the Coal Pit Learning Center was able to expand its facilities to more than double its original square footage. The renovation and expansion included a brand new kitchen, main office, bathrooms, and a large multi-use classroom. This allowed Coal Pit to serve more children on a full-time basis rather than their original part-time schedule. Dorothy has dedicated over 35 years of her life to helping children and families escape the devastating cycle of poverty. Under her supervision, the school has grown and flourished. The Coal Pit Learning Center faculty, staff, and board members have helped over 1,000 students graduate from preschool and successfully continue their education. The Experience:

Each session includes educational and socialization activities, concluding with a nutritious lunch. Students are given a chance to explore the areas of music, science, art, and constructive play while developing their visual, motor, and pre-reading skills. The Coal Pit Philosophy:

The founders of Coal Pit Learning Center believed that providing low income children with essential social, emotional, and academic skills would give them the confidence and capabilities needed to excel in school, thus enabling them ultimately to enter the work force competitively and to escape from or avoid the cycle of poverty. The central focus of the Coal Pit program is building a positive concept of self in each and every child, based upon the children’s actual achievements in the program. Increased self-control and a positive approach toward learning demonstrate the children’s improved attitude toward life in general as they progress through the program. Exposing these children to a nurturing environment at such an early age has a profound impact. The children’s successes at Coal Pit carry over into kindergarten, elementary school, and even further into higher education. The lessons they learn in those years teach them the things they need to live better, more fulfilled lives in adulthood. However, Coal Pit takes one more step: reaching out to the parents. Coal Pit teaches parenting skills and life lessons to whole families. Our Facility:

In our recently expanded and remodeled building, we have separate classrooms for three year olds and four year olds with programs, activities, and materials tailored for each age group. Our music area with grand piano and enlarged outdoor playground has been recently added and encourage children to expand their skills and socialization. Children enjoy parties and nutritious daily lunches in our renovated dining and kitchen area. Indoor and outdoor toys as well as playground equipment provide ample fun for an active day. Arts and crafts and puzzles and games encourage creativity and early childhood development.