Meet the CHS Hershey Center Director
In fall 2023, Catherine Hershey School for Early Learning, Hershey, was the first to open its doors to children and families from under-resourced and overburdened backgrounds as part of a $350 million initiative to develop six Early Childhood Education Centers in Pennsylvania.
CHS Hershey concluded its first successful year of operation and capped it off with a “Moving On” celebration this past summer, honoring the first group of children to move on from CHS and transition to kindergarten.
Leading the CHS Hershey staff into its second year in operation providing high-quality Early Childhood Education (ECE), educational experiences, and family support is Center Director Kelly Williams-Firestone.
“My passion for ECE is driven by wanting to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families who are under-resourced,” said Williams-Firestone, who holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, master’s degree in ECE, and has worked in the education field for over 35 years throughout Pennsylvania.
“I felt that my own mission and vision for ECE aligned with that of CHS.”
Williams-Firestone resonates with the two-generational approach of the CHS program, which addresses the needs of both families and children to ultimately benefit the long-term achievement of the child.
“The idea that we are caring for the whole child and the family is unique,” Williams-Firestone said. “Setting goals and providing resources and support for the child and the family to accomplish those goals is not a typical approach for a childcare program, but it makes so much sense!
“I believe that by not only identifying the families who are most in need, but also most receptive to actively participating in the program at CHS, is ensuring that families have ownership in the process.”
In her role, Williams-Firestone emphasizes building strong collaboration and communication at CHS Hershey to prioritize the success and wellness of the staff, families, and children.
“It’s been apparent to me from my first day that the Center staff and leadership are dedicated to the mission and vision of CHS,” she said. “I am overwhelmed by the passion I see. I am so very excited about the work being done currently and what the future holds!”
CHS Hershey is now accepting applications for fall 2025. To apply, click here.
Williams-Firestone leads a team of nearly 80 professionals spanning across various career fields including Scholastic, Family Success, Health Services, Operations, and Human Resources. To find open careers, click here.
