Dear Families and Students,

Welcome to the Early Childhood Learning Center! My name is Melissa Klocke. The 2022-23 school year will mark my 20th year in education. During my seventeen years at Kirksville R-III, eleven of those years were at the Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC) and the other three as a Behavior Interventionist and a Process Coordinator.  Before coming to Kirksville, I spent 3 years at Knox County R-I.  While at Knox County, I was a Title I teacher and a classroom teacher.  I am blessed to have this opportunity to be the Director of the ECLC and continue its success. 

Kirksville has been my home since 2003. I have two children. My daughter is a Kirksville High School Alumni and a successful esthetician. My son is currently a sophomore at KHS. 

A child’s early years are the foundation for his or her future development, providing a strong base for lifelong learning, including cognitive and social development. At the ECLC we understand the importance of early childhood education as an essential building block of a child’s future success.  My goal is for the children to love coming to the ECLC each day and become a lifelong learner.

I absolutely love this age group and the excitement children bring to learning. Plus, I get to work with an incredible staff that share this love for teaching. ECLC is a unique place that emphasizes the importance of the whole child with a strong emphasis on social emotional well being and academics in a developmentally appropriate way.

It is my goal to continue the tradition of excellence here at the ECLC. I am committed to always exploring new ways to meet the needs of all students and to effectively communicate with parents and community members.

Please know that my door is always open to you. I welcome your conversation and positive input throughout the school year. I look forward to celebrating our student’s successes. 

Sincerely,

Ms. Melissa Klocke