Muskogee Public Schools Early Childhood Center was recently featured in an international early childhood education exchange with students and faculty from Hubei University of Education in China.
Led by Principal Jennifer Schuler, the virtual visit provided a look inside Muskogee’s innovative early learning environment and introduced international education students to the Reggio Emilia-inspired approach used at ECC. Participants explored how child-centered, hands-on experiences shape classroom learning and help young children develop creativity, confidence, and a love of discovery.
The collaboration was coordinated through Dr. Kimberly Phillips, Program Chair for Early Childhood Education at Northeastern State University, who helped connect Hubei University’s early childhood education students with the Muskogee center.
Through live discussion and a guided virtual tour, future educators in China learned about the design of the center’s learning spaces, including areas for art, light exploration, literacy, and outdoor play. The exchange highlighted how early childhood educators across the world share a common goal, creating meaningful, play-based learning experiences that encourage children to explore, question, and grow.
“This was a wonderful opportunity to share what makes early learning in Muskogee so special,” said Schuler. “It’s exciting to know that what we’re doing here is inspiring conversations about early childhood education around the world.”