About

SSBIH

Westport Early Childhood opened during the 2018-2019 school year to provide early childhood students in Eastern Jefferson County with an outstanding educational experience focused on kindergarten readiness. We serve many of our district's youngest learners through a range of programs designed to make the most of each child's natural desire to learn. Our faculty and staff collaborate with families to assist in developing a strong educational foundation that will follow our students from preschool to adulthood.

At Westport Early Childhood, our classrooms are safe and inviting, and students are eager to learn.

Within our walls, we house:

  • 19 Classrooms

  • Approximately 325 students from diverse backgrounds (and growing)

  • Occupational, Speech, and Physical Therapy

  • Early Childhood Response to Intervention

  • Implement Pre-K On My Way curriculum

  • Incorporates Early Childhood Standards and Skills to ensure Kindergarten Readiness

  • Implement the Second Step curriculum to teach prosocial skills

Vision

The vision of Westport Early Childhood Center is that every learner will become kindergarten-ready. 

Mission

The mission of Westport Early Childhood Center is to provide a high-quality, comprehensive preschool program for young learners. We pledge to nurture, sustain, and educate children in a positive learning and social environment that supports the desired child outcomes and promotes academic success.  We are committed to fostering the self-esteem of children so they may experience personal and social success. The program supports young learners in using all available community resources to meet their individual needs in this dynamic and diverse society.

Man Smiling

Dr. Mark Mina

Principal, Westport Early Childhood Center

“I’m deeply honored to lead Westport Early Childhood Center and continue fostering the incredible work already happening here,” Mina said. “Early childhood education is my passion because it lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning and success. I look forward to building on the strong legacy at Westport.”

Mina began his education career as an instructional assistant in preschool classrooms, sparking his passion for early childhood education. Before Westport, Mina was an assistant principal at Olmsted Academy North. He spent most of his nine-year career in JCPS as a Highland Middle, King Elementary, and W.E.B. DuBois Academy teacher.

"Dr. Mark Mina's passion for early learning, commitment to equity, and proven leadership make him the ideal choice to guide Westport Early Childhood Center into its next chapter,” said Carlisa Gibson, Executive Director of Early Childhood Education. “His proven track record of cultivating inclusive environments and driving student achievement ensures that every student has the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally."

Mina holds education-related degrees from the University of Louisville and the University of the Cumberlands.