About Us
The Lebanon R-3 Early Childhood Center provides a nurturing foundation for our youngest learners through a variety of programs designed to meet every child’s needs. Our Pre-K Program welcomes children who turn four years old before August 1. We offer engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that prepare children for kindergarten success. The Early Childhood Special Education Program serves children ages 3–5 who may need additional support in areas such as speech, language, behavior, or physical and occupational development.
Through Parents as Teachers, families with children ranging from the prenatal stage through kindergarten entry can participate in playgroups, developmental screenings, and in-home visits designed to support early learning and strengthen family connections.
Our Junior Jacket Care Team supports the whole child by connecting students to essential medical services, while our School Social Worker connects families with valuable community resources. Together, these programs create a strong foundation for lifelong learning and well-being.
What began as a vision in 2021 has become a vibrant hub of learning, innovation, and community support for Lebanon R-III students. Today, the Robert W. Plaster Center for Student Success is home to cornerstone programs that are shaping the future of education and wellness in Lebanon: the Lebanon Early Childhood Center (ECC).
Early Childhood Center & Jordan Valley Health Partnership
The Lebanon Early Childhood Center officially opened its doors to students in 2023, welcoming hundreds of Lebanon’s youngest learners into a space designed to support their growth academically, socially, and physically.
In partnership with Jordan Valley Health Center – Women’s and Children’s Clinic, the ECC now provides direct health and wellness services on-site for Lebanon R-III students and families. From preventative medical care to dental, vision, and therapy services, this partnership ensures that students receive the support they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Since opening, ECC has continued to grow, serving more than 300 preschool students annually, with expanding capacity for three- and four-year-old learners. Parents also have access to early childhood resources, family education programs, and community-based support through Parents as Teachers and other outreach initiatives.
A Place for All Learners
The upper grade level at The Center houses a dynamic environment where high school students engage in Real-World Learning through programs like GO CAPS and the Schools of Discovery. Students collaborate with local businesses, healthcare providers, and educators to explore career paths in areas such as:
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Business and Entrepreneurship
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Medicine and Healthcare
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Teaching Professions
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Engineering and Manufacturing
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Culinary Arts and Hospitality
Students gain hands-on experience through job shadowing, internships, and project-based learning—many directly within the Center itself, including the Jordan Valley clinic and early childhood classrooms.
“We’ve created a space where learning and community truly connect,” said Lebanon Schools Superintendent Dr. David Schmitz. “Students are building skills, confidence, and purpose while contributing to our community’s future workforce.”
A Center for the Future
The Robert W. Plaster Center for Student Success stands as a testament to what community partnership and vision can achieve. Funded through a $1 million donation from the Plaster family and a $3.5 million lease-purchase agreement, the Center continues to evolve, offering opportunities for expansion, entrepreneurship, and innovation for years to come.
From early learning to career readiness, the Center represents Lebanon R-III’s commitment to helping all students graduate with a clear plan for their future.