Welcome to Augustana Early Learning Center!
We are proud to be a Colorado SHINES Level 4 Program!
This rating isn't just a number—it’s the state’s official confirmation that we provide a high-quality early learning environment where your child can thrive.
Learn more about the impact of a level 4 rating!
Our Philosophy of Education: The Importance of PLAY!
At Augustana Early Learning Center, we believe children learn best through play. Play is an essential foundation for their holistic development, laying the foundation for physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Through play, children embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploration, and learning. Our teachers have the critical role of helping to facilitate play, and supporting children through problem solving, asking thoughtful questions and encouraging curiosity.
Our School’s History & Partnership with
Augustana Lutheran Church
We opened our doors in 1971 and operate as a mission of Augustana Lutheran Church. Our programming & curriculum are not religious in nature but we receive ongoing support from the Church through shared services that help to offset many of the costs of operating our Center, including: shared billing & finance departments, maintenance staff, tech/IT support and building space. We are grateful to the Church for their sustained commitment to our school and community!
The teachers and staff are thoughtful, kind, and creative in their activity planning and care for both my son (3.5 - preschool) and my daughter (6 - after-care program). AELC is a warm and welcoming place that we love being a part of! -Kendall
Caring and dedicated teachers and administration. My 3-year old loves his teachers and always looks forward to going to school. -Matt
We love AELC! We have two kids (2 1/2 and 4) who have been attending for a couple years. The staff is super engaged, caring, and consistent. The admins are very organized and have great communication. They ensure the safety of the children is priority, while managing to create a warm and encouraging environment built for inclusivity and learning! -MaryKate
Wonderful school with caring teachers and staff. Our son has been there for more than 4 years. He loves the fairy garden and playground. We feel he is well prepared to enter kindergarten. -Ian
The current director taught both of my children as a teacher and led the center for my younger child’s last year. I think she is fantastic--I have total confidence in her as a director and educator. She has a great sense of appropriate child development; a solid commitment to leadership and staff development; and is kind, compassionate, and competent. -Kara
There's a combination of tenured teachers who have been there for years, and newer faces who just joined this year. All of the teachers are kind and loving to the kids and genuinely want to enrich their development and social skills. We are happy with our decision to be a part of this center! -Lydia
Augustana is a full-time, year-round Toddler & Preschool Program.
Fireflies: Ages 12 months to 24 months old
Dragonflies: Ages 18 months to 30 months old
Bumblebees: Ages 2 to 3 years old
Ladybugs: Ages 2.5 to 3.5 years old
Butterflies: Ages 3 to 4 years old
Crickets: Ages 4 to 5 years old
Come Visit Us!
We offer tours every Tuesday & Thursday from 10:00AM-11:30AM.
Tours are by appointment only.
NOTE: If the waitlist fee will cause financial hardship, please contact our team at aelcadmin@augustanadenver.org and we will discuss options!
Colorado Shines
Denver Preschool Program
Colorado Child Care Assistance Program For Families
Universal Preschool (UPK) Colorado