Ellis Early Learning has been a pillar of early childhood education in Boston’s South End for nearly 140 years. As one of Boston’s oldest nonprofits, Ellis continues to lead in providing equitable, inclusive, and high-quality care for children from infancy to age five. Under the leadership of CEO Lauren Cook, now in her seventh year, Ellis remains deeply committed to closing opportunity gaps and supporting all families, regardless of background or income.
Ellis operates on an economically integrated model—about two-thirds of its students receive government subsidies, while one-third are tuition-paying families. This intentional diversity creates an inclusive environment that benefits all children. Many face serious challenges: 20% are involved with the Department of Children and Families, 11% experience homelessness, and many families struggle to meet basic needs.
To address these realities, Ellis offers more than education. A dedicated Family Support Team, including social workers and a Family Navigator, helps families access housing, food, furnishings, and other essentials. The guiding belief: children thrive academically only when their families are stable and supported.
Serving over 300 children annually across two South End campuses and one in Jamaica Plain, Ellis offers full-day, year-round care—an essential support for working parents. Within this schedule, children benefit from developmentally rich programming and strong community partnerships. Weekly music classes through the New England Conservatory, literacy support via Raising a Reader, hygiene products from Hope & Comfort, and collaborations with Boston Public Schools and other nonprofits enrich the experience.
The long-term benefits of early education are well documented. Children who attend programs like Ellis are more likely to succeed in school, earn higher incomes, enjoy better health, and are less likely to require special education or be involved in the criminal justice system. Ellis’s work strengthens not just individuals, but entire communities.
Joy and community are core to Ellis’s culture. Events like the Mother’s Day Tea Party, Father’s Day Lemonade Stand, Bubble Bash, and Preschool Graduation help foster strong school-home connections. An annual Holiday Gift Drive ensures every child receives a present, reinforcing belonging and care.
Nationally accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)—a distinction held by just 6% of providers—Ellis also partners with Boston Public Schools to operate four public pre-K classrooms.
As it prepares to celebrate its 140th anniversary this fall at the Cyclorama, Ellis reflects on a proud legacy dating back to 1885. Among the guests will be board member and 1970s Ellis alum Sean Curran, whose firm, Waterville Consulting, is a key supporter.
Ellis’s financial model blends public funding, family tuition, and philanthropy. Tuition for full-paying families is significant—$770 per week for infants, $715 for toddlers, and $495 for preschoolers—underscoring the critical need for public and private support to ensure access for lower-income families.
The chronic underfunding of early education remains a major challenge, especially in compensating and retaining skilled educators. High turnover disrupts the continuity young children need. CEO Lauren Cook stresses that teachers are central to children’s success, and Ellis continues to push for systemic reform and better pay.
Beyond direct care, Ellis is a strong voice in advocacy, working to secure sustainable public investment in early education. While philanthropy fuels innovation, Ellis believes government must fund core services to ensure long-term equity and impact.
Looking ahead, Ellis aims to expand into new neighborhoods, especially those reflecting Boston’s diversity and need. Guided by its mission and legacy, Ellis remains focused on one goal: ensuring every child, regardless of circumstance, can learn, grow, and thrive.
Despite its impact, Ellis has a waitlist of about 1,200 children—four times the number it currently serves—highlighting the urgent demand for accessible, high-quality early care in Boston. But growth is limited by space and the high costs of expansion.
Ellis looks forward to hosting its 140th Birthday Party celebration on November 6th. For those interested in purchasing tickets, pursuing volunteer opportunities, or making a donation, please email dev@elliseearlylearning.org.
