About
Clare Swan Early Learning Center in Anchorage, AK is a program of Cook Inlet Tribal Council that applies the Early Head Start model to support working families. The center serves Alaska Native and American Indian infants and toddlers from six weeks to three years using a research-based curriculum focused on responsive, caring relationships. Classrooms maintain a 1:4 teacher-to-child ratio, and families receive regular developmental assessments and guidance to support learning at home.
To meet family schedules, the center offers extended-day classrooms (7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.) and seven-hour classrooms. A multi-age Yup’ik Immersion classroom (ages 0–3) provides full-day Yup’ik language instruction. The program operates year-round, Monday through Friday, and welcomes family tours during business hours.
Clare Swan Early Learning Center extends support beyond the classroom. The La’a Kenu program strengthens kindergarten readiness for children ages three to five through culturally responsive practices and home literacy resources. Workforce development is supported through a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential pathway managed by Alaska’s People, which includes paid training, coaching, classroom experience, and employment navigation. The Tsil’qu program delivers trauma-informed training and support for staff, parents, and Alaska Native and American Indian families.
The center delivers culturally responsive, research-based early education that aligns with family goals and the needs of Anchorage’s working families.