Central Bank announced its support of Children’s Therapy and Early Education School as part of its ongoing Branch Out campaign, which shines a light on the “hidden gems” of mid-Missouri, according to a news release issued by Central Bank. The campaign uses video spotlights, social media storytelling and media outreach to celebrate local nonprofits and small businesses that are creating lasting and positive changes in the community. 

Children’s Therapy and Early Education School offers early childhood special education services to preschoolers in Audrain County. Located in Mexico, the school creates a supportive environment for the treatment, training, development and education of children with developmental delays or disabilities. 

Research has shown that early intervention is most successful when a comprehensive approach is taken toward a child’s development, the release stated. Access to the school’s early childhood program is typically initiated through local school districts, pediatrician referrals or early childhood screenings. By focusing on early intervention, the organization aims to build school readiness, foster independence and strengthen long-term outcomes for young learners before they enter kindergarten. 

The school provides a comprehensive range of programs, including integrated speech, occupational and physical therapy, alongside customized learning environments designed to meet their individual needs. At present, a dedicated staff of 12 supports the 15 students enrolled in the program, allowing for individualized attention. 

“Our school allows students to come to one place where all their needs are met,” Lauren Oliver, director of Children’s Therapy and Early Education School, said in the release. “Supporting our students is not a one-size-fits-all model; I’m proud of our staff for their patience and flexibility.” 

This approach brings education and therapeutic care together under one roof, where children can be evaluated and receive specialized services from highly trained professionals. This helps students build essential classroom skills while also developing social and emotional skills. The school also provides support to families who might otherwise feel alone while navigating a diagnosis. 

The school recently completed renovations of its playground, transforming it into a fully accessible outdoor space. Designed with all students in mind, the playground features an inclusive, resurfaced play area for children who use mobility aids, enhanced safety measures, a shade structure and specialized equipment. In honor of a speech therapist who dedicated more than 20 years to the school and its students, the playground has been renamed the Sara C. Robertson Memorial Playground. Several foundation grants and local businesses helped make the playground a reality. 

“We raised over $240,000 to improve the playground for our students. We could not have done it without the community’s support,” Oliver said. “Whether someone gives financially, volunteers at an event, or advocates for us in the community, they are strengthening families and building a more inclusive future for our kiddos.” 

Community members can support the school through financial contributions or participating in fundraising efforts for facilities like the playground renovation. People can also get involved by sharing the school’s mission and advocating for early childhood inclusion in the community. 

“Children’s Therapy and Early Education School provides invaluable early intervention and inclusive learning environments for families across our region,” Tony Robertson, senior vice president at Central Bank of Audrain County, said in the release. “The updated playground makes a world of difference for children with mobility issues. We feel very blessed and fortunate in that respect that the playground has my wife’s name attached to it. Sara was a very staunch advocate of using play to enhance a child’s development, whether it’s verbally, physically or mentally.” 

The Children’s Therapy and Early Education School is dedicated to helping every child reach their full potential. Through a dedicated staff and community support, the school plays a crucial role in providing young learners with the essential resources, accessible spaces and dedicated care needed to create a bright future.