Our History
Easter Seals Jane's House Early Learning Center is named in honor of Jane Huntzicker who joined YVCC in 1957 as chair of the Home Economics Department. During her tenure she initiated the Early Childhood Education Program and was a pioneer in bringing Parent Education Cooperative to the Yakima area. In the early 1970's Ms. Huntzicker began discussions with staff and students concerning a child care center at YVCC and worked tirelessly with staff to shape the project and secure donations for the center. When Ms. Huntzicker retired from YVCC in 1984, the campus Parent Education Cooperative Preschool building was named "Jane's House" in honor of her dedication to early learning. A year later, in 1985, plans were finally underway to open a childcare center on campus, which existed at 1117 S. 16th Avenue in Yakima until 2001.

Before Ms. Huntzicker passed away in 1999, she was aware of the plans for a brand new childcare facility. She set up a donation in her name to assist in equipping the new center.

Easter Seals Washington contracted with YVCC to take over the running of the center starting Fall quarter of 2006. Easter Seals Washington is excited with the collaboration with YVCC and will start the NAEYC accreditation process during it’s first year of operation. Easter Seals Jane's House Early Learning Center is just what Jane would have wanted for YVCC.