Our Story
The Grand Rapids Early Discovery Center began as a child care center on the campus of Aquinas College in the 1980s, serving the faculty and staff. Over the years, it evolved into a focal point for early childhood education, particularly through the lens of the Reggio Emilia approach. In 2000, a partnership led to the establishment of the Grand Rapids Child Discovery Center, a public charter K-5 school, allowing for a seamless transition of Reggio-inspired learning experiences from early childhood into primary education.
In 2012, a dedicated group of parents formed a non-profit organization, renaming it the Grand Rapids Early Discovery Center. Now located at 515 Jefferson Ave SE, the center continues to foster a collaborative environment for families, educators, and the West Michigan community, emphasizing the importance of early childhood education.