In the late 1960’s, child care in Okmulgee consisted primarily of in-home private baby-sitters. No state licensed facilities were available. More women were entering the work force; divorce statistics and single parenting were on the rise. A need for quality, affordable child care was recognized. Backed by local businessmen, civic organizations and the Okmulgee Board of Education, Okmulgee Day Care Center, Inc. was established in 1969 as a private non-profit corporation to meet the needs of the community at large.

Nineteen well known community leaders served as the first Board of Directors. The Center was originally licensed for 49 children ages two to nine years old, and was located in an old elementary school which has since been demolished. Today, 40 years later, the Okmulgee Day Care Center, Inc. is now known as Okmulgee Learning Center, Inc and is licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services for a maximum enrollment of 123 children. We have 24 employees. They consist of: a Director, an Assistant Director, 13 full time, and 9 part time employees.

The Center is presently located in the former Emerson Grade School building at 708 E. 16 th street, where it has been housed for over 29 years. However, due to a generous donation from Bob and Nila Barnard, OLC will soon be housed in the former Leisure Manor location.

Staff turnover has been extremely low with most of the teachers having been employed for five years or longer. The staff regularly attends training seminars for child care givers. They are required by DHS to have 20 clock hours of training per year.

All children regardless of race, color, sex or religion who are six weeks through twelve years of age are eligible to enroll at Okmulgee Learning Center, Inc. Children may be enrolled on a full time/part time basis. Breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack are provided for the children.

Okmulgee Learning Center, Inc. is tax exempt under section 501 (c) 3 of the 1954 Internal Revenue Code.