Mighty Oaks Early Learning Center Opens to Support Local Families Through Community Partnership

Williamsburg Independent School District (WISD), Main Street Baptist Church, and University of the Cumberlands recently celebrated the opening of Mighty Oaks Early Learning Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official beginning of a collaborative effort to expand access to high-quality childcare for families in Williamsburg and the surrounding area. 

Community members toured the new facility during the event, seeing firsthand how Mighty Oaks is already providing a safe, nurturing environment where young children can learn, grow, and build a strong foundation for the future. 

Mighty Oaks Early Learning Center is the result of a partnership between Williamsburg Independent School District, Main Street Baptist Church, and Cumberlands. Together, the three organizations are expanding access to quality childcare and early learning opportunities while supporting working families throughout the region. 

"At Cumberlands, we believe innovation should always be driven by purpose. As we looked at the needs of our community, we recognized the growing demand for quality childcare," said Dr. Quentin Young, president of University of the Cumberlands. "Mighty Oaks was created to serve families by providing a nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and build a strong foundation for the future." 

Kayla Henderson, director of Mighty Oaks Learning Center, also spoke to the critical need for childcare in the local community. 

"I believe it's so important that families in our area have access to safe and supportive childcare, and Mighty Oaks helps meet that growing need," she said. "It's been a long process, but it's been really incredible to see it all come together." 

Emily and Ryan Pasley, both Cumberlands alumni and current university employees, know firsthand the value of having quality childcare close to campus. After choosing to remain in Williamsburg following graduation, the couple found themselves raising a family away from their extended support system. For them, Mighty Oaks provides both convenience and peace of mind while they continue serving the university and the community. 

"Mighty Oaks has already been an amazing addition to our community and is exactly what many working parents were needing. We have loved our experience with them so far," shared Emily. 

"Having our little girl, Adalyn, so close to campus is incredibly convenient, and the updates they send throughout the day give us peace of mind knowing she's happy and well cared for," added Ryan. 

Beyond serving local families, Mighty Oaks also creates meaningful employment opportunities for individuals who feel called to invest in the next generation. 

For Anna Siler, '26, working as a part-time teacher at Mighty Oaks is more than a job; it's an opportunity to live out her faith. While attending Cumberlands, Siler earned a bachelor's degree in missions and ministry and now views her role at the center as an extension of that calling. 

"I believe this is a way I get to serve the Lord," said Siler. "As part-time staff, you're pouring not only into the children, but into the full-time staff you support." 

Mighty Oaks Early Learning Center can serve approximately 43 children ranging in age from six weeks to five years. Enrollment is prioritized among University of the Cumberlands employees, Main Street Baptist Church families, and the Williamsburg Independent School District. Any remaining openings are made available to families in the surrounding community. 

Through its partnership with Williamsburg Independent School District and Main Street Baptist Church, Cumberlands continues to invest in initiatives that strengthen families, support the regional workforce, and create lasting opportunities for the Williamsburg community.