The Early Learning Center utilizes the Washoe County School District curriculum as well as university designed programs. It may also serve as a classroom for curriculum research projects. However, all curricula is designed to meet state and local standards. Nevada State Curriculum Standards

Parents throughout the Washoe County School District may apply to have their first through third grade children attend the Early Learning Center. Students are selected by a committee. A higher percentage of students come form nearby Sierra Vista Elementary School, which serves as the Early Learning Center's home-base school. Students usually remain in the program for three years. As this is a model Washoe County School District class, students are selected from several developmental levels with the aim to mirror the diverse student population that is typically found in the district.

Applications for fall enrollment in the Early Learning Center can be obtained at Sierra Vista Elementary School, beginning on the first Monday after Washoe County School District's Spring Break. Sierra Vista Elementary School is located at 2001 Soaring Eagle Drive in Reno: (775) 333-5080.

University students who are preparing to be teachers come to the Early Learning Center to observe or to fulfill a practicum requirement. Currently we have approximately 15 college students who work in the classroom at a variety of times throughout the semester.