CALUMET, Mich. (June 2, 2026) – In a joint effort to address critical regional childcare needs and expand early childhood resources, the Public Schools of Calumet, Laurium & Keweenaw (CLK) and the Copper Country Intermediate School District (CCISD) have announced the launch of a new center-based early childhood program, scheduled to open in the fall of 2026.
Operating as the CLK Early Childhood Center, the program will offer comprehensive, high-quality care tailored to meet the schedules of local working families. Under the new collaborative partnership, CLK Schools will host the program on its campus, while CCISD staff members will serve as the program director and special education service providers.
Beyond providing exceptional early education, the Copper Country ISD Career and Technical Education (CTE) program will invite high school students to work side by side with professional staff. This integration provides local students with valuable, hands-on learning experiences, allowing them to develop practical skills in a real-world setting.
“This partnership is a great example of how we can team up to solve a real challenge for our local families,” said Joel Asiala, CLK Schools Superintendent. "By sharing school spaces and bringing in the intermediate school district's strong management support, we are creating a reliable, high-quality childcare solution for working parents. At the same time, seeing high school CTE students work right alongside early childhood professionals on our campus is a wonderful win for our entire school family."
To ensure every child in the community has a place to thrive, the center will prioritize evidence-based, inclusive practices designed to accommodate all "little learners" and their diverse developmental needs.
"We want to create a safe, welcoming, and excellently run center for our children right from day one," said Jennifer Beaudette, CCISD Early Childhood Director. “Our team allows the classrooms to focus entirely on what they do best: welcoming every child and giving them the personalized care, support, and attention that they need to grow and succeed."
This innovative partnership marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for early childhood education and workforce development in the Copper Country. Both districts are thrilled to bring this positive, lasting impact to local families and students. Further details regarding enrollment guidelines and operational timelines will be shared in the coming months.