It was a foggy morning and I see the sight of the Play and Learn Transit Van in the parking lot promising something unique. Inside, a lovely gym transforms into a world of exploration and freedom, embodying a gentle, nurturing atmosphere that's instantly infectious. This isn't your typical playgroup; it's a space where children lead the way, and adults happily follow.

The Oregon Dept of Education, Early Learning Division (ELD) is conducting a community engagement initiative called Raise Up Oregon, aimed at improving support for families with children, prenatal to age five, locally here in the Mid-Columbia and across the state.

Four new early childhood education programs and two existing programs have received grant funding from The Oregon Department of Education’s Early Learning Division (ELD) to add additional Preschool Promise slots to their child care programs.

Scholarships will benefit four students enrolled in the college’s Early Childhood Education program this fall, said Wendy Patton, executive director of Columbia Gorge Community College Foundation. The awards will help students complete the program and enter the workforce.