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Lincoln Early Learning Center

Educating Today for a Better Tomorrow!

History of Lincoln


A historic black and white photo of Lincoln School, dated 1896.

Lincoln School was first opened in 1896 at the corner of 4th St and Idaho St. It was rebuilt at 300 W Fort St, the location today in 1950 as an opportunity school for students who needed some extra support. In 1992, the name was changed to Fort Boise Learning Center, and in 1999 it was changed to Fort Boise Mid High. The school closed at the end of 2008 and all the students are now attending Frank Church High School.

From 2008 until 2024, the Fort Boise campus became a multipurpose location for the Boise School District -- temporary sites for Boise School District Elementary Schools undergoing renovation, Driver's Education Classes, Assistive Technology,  STEP Program, Warehousing, and many others over the years.

Exterior view of a brick building with a sign above the entrance.

In the fall of 2024, Lincoln Early Learning Center launched its re-opening, remodeled to meet the needs of early learners (3-5 years old), emphasizing high-quality early childhood education and inclusive early learning opportunities. 

"Our vision for Early Childhood Learning Centers is rooted in a commitment to providing every child with a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.  We believe that by investing in high-quality early childhood education, we can empower children to be better prepared for Kindergarten, reach their full potential, and build a bridge for our community."  

A long hallway with doors on either side, leading to an open area.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       Hallway of Fort Boise building (before Lincoln)

 

 

A collection of images displaying the new remodeling of Lincoln ELC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 Fort Boise remodeled for Lincoln ELC. (2024)

 

 

A colorful mural depicts a sunrise over mountains with the text 'Let Your Light Shine!'The previous Madison Early Childhood Center was the first program moved into Lincoln Early Learning Center, which included four of the Boise Schools Early Childhood Special Education Programs and the inclusive collaboration with the Friends of Children and Families Head Start program.  With an emphasis on early learners, Lincoln Early Learning Center houses a unique and highly qualified staff: General Education Early Childhood Teachers, Special Education Early Childhood Teachers, School Psychologists, Speech/Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Audiologists, Administrators, Physical Education Teachers, Librarian, and Music Teachers.  In addition, we have highly experienced support staff including paraprofessionals, administrative assistants, and custodians.

Group photo of the staff of Lincoln before transitioning from Madison ELC.