On Jan. 16, the Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg Child Development Center team came together for an in-service training day focused on strengthening the care and education they provide every day.

The full staff participated in safety training, an all-hands discussion with Commanding Officer Capt. Geno Dawson, and in-depth instruction on the rollout of Early Learning Matters (ELM), which is a Navy-wide curriculum designed to support kindergarten readiness and provide continuity of learning for children who might find themselves moving between various CDCs as their parents move duty stations.

The day’s “Camp ELM” theme carried through with snacks and goodies provided by the Parent Involvement Board, including handmade s’more plushies created by the CDC’s own fiber artist, Patricia Jones.

During the event, Lindsey Ellis was also recognized with the Civilian Service Achievement Medal in advance of her upcoming departure, honoring her contributions to the CDC and the installation.

Training days like this ensure our CDC professionals are equipped, informed, and supported as they care for our military families.