This summer we are proud and excited to open our newest Variety Child Learning Center location in East Northport, in the Bellerose School building.
The campus will feature eight classrooms, indoor and outdoor play spaces, a gymnasium and so much more. We will be welcoming preschool students who require supportive services as well as Universal Pre-K students in partnership with the Northport-East Northport School District.
“We’re very excited about the opportunity to bring Variety’s mission to a new community and building new relationships within Suffolk County,” says Kerri Okula, founding Principal of the new school.
“There’s something incredibly meaningful about building a school from the ground up,” adds Bonnie Linnick, founding Education Coordinator for the campus. “We’re not just opening doors; we’re creating a culture, a community, and a shared sense of purpose.”
“Our new classrooms have been intentionally designed with our students’ diverse needs in mind,” Kerri explains. “Each room will feature designated spaces to enhance learning experiences across multiple areas including sensory integration, whole group instruction, small group centers, gross and fine motor development, and social-emotional learning tools.”
“It is not just a new location. It is a chance to do things thoughtfully and boldly, with both experience and innovation guiding the way,” Bonnie adds.
At VCLC, we believe that early childhood is a crucial stage for growth and development. “Our commitment to a continuous growth mindset keeps us focused on innovation and improvement,” Kerri says. “We stay current with the latest educational trends and research to ensure we are using evidence-based practices that best serve our students. This dedication to learning extends to our entire school culture, from teachers and staff to administrators and families.”
The new campus will also feature the same dedication to supporting not only students, but the adults who care for and teach them - a key focus at our other schools. Through training, technical assistance, and professional development, Variety ensures that our team remains current, confident, and compassionate. This foundation is rooted in family partnerships, research-based practices, and a whole-child approach, which will be a tremendous asset to students in East Northport and the surrounding area.
“We’re also carrying over the fun and camaraderie that keeps our team strong, including staff games, friendly competitions, and engaging professional development programs that help us stay inspired, connected, and grounded in our shared mission,” Bonnie notes. “One of Variety’s greatest strengths is how we work together. That spirit of collaboration and support will be a cornerstone of our new campus.”
This new chapter in Variety’s story is an exciting one for both staff and students. “Over the nearly 14 years I have been part of the Variety Child Learning Center family, I have grown from a teacher’s aide to a teacher, and now I have the privilege of serving as the founding Education Coordinator of our new school,” Bonnie shares. “Just as I have developed and grown within its supportive environment, Variety has expanded from one school to multiple locations. This expansion means we can support and impact even more families, and I am honored to be part of that.”
Community connection is also at the heart of Variety’s programs. Whether through family engagement initiatives or local partnerships, we believe in the power of collaboration to uplift and strengthen not only our students but the communities in which they live. “We value feedback from families, staff, and students, and we actively use that input to adapt, grow, and improve our programs. This openness to change ensures we are always pursuing best practices and striving to be better each day in support of our mission,” Bonnie explains.
Community connection is also at the heart of Variety’s programs. Whether through family engagement initiatives or local partnerships, we believe in the power of collaboration to uplift and strengthen not only our students but the communities in which they live. “We value feedback from families, staff, and students, and we actively use that input to adapt, grow, and improve our programs. This openness to change ensures we are always pursuing best practices and striving to be better each day in support of our mission,” Bonnie explains.
“With the addition of the Bellerose School to the VCLC family, we are presented with an exciting opportunity to become a trusted partner and active contributor to this vibrant and welcoming area,” says Janet Koch, CEO, of the expansion into East Northport. “We look forward to collaborating with community members and forming lasting partnerships that enhance opportunities for our students and their families.”
It's going to be a very exciting year ahead and we can’t wait to welcome so many new faces to the Variety Child Learning Center community. If you would like information about enrolling at the Bellerose campus, please contact Kerri Okula at kokula@vclc.org.
