Faith-filled childcare in Chesapeake

Beulah Duke Learning Academy

Educating Through Excellence

A safe, nurturing academy for infants through school-age children.

Now enrolling

Accepting subsidy

Christian-based learning

Ages 6 weeks - 12 years

School readiness focus

Tours available

Procare registration

Why families choose BDLA

One steady layer of care at a time

Safety, routines, learning, character, and family communication build on each other so children feel secure before they are asked to stretch.

Care 01

Safety children can feel

Warm welcomes, supervised rooms, predictable transitions, and attentive adults help children settle before the learning day begins.

Care 02

Routines that build confidence

Meals, rest, circle time, centers, outdoor play, and pickup follow a steady rhythm so children know what comes next.

Care 03

Learning through discovery

Age-appropriate lessons, books, sensory play, art, music, movement, and STREAMin3 experiences support school readiness.

Care 04

Character shaped daily

Christian values are practiced in real classroom moments: kindness, patience, sharing, gratitude, respect, and service.

Care 05

Families kept in the loop

Tour requests, family updates, Procare reminders, and direct office communication help parents know where to go next.

Child growth and family support

Children move forward when home and school move together

Classroom routines and family communication work together so each child feels known, supported, and ready to grow from drop-off to pickup.

Child path

Infants feel secure

Care begins with bonding, feeding rhythms, rest, sensory exploration, and trusted adult connection.

Child path

Toddlers practice independence

Language, movement, social play, potty-training support, and simple routines help toddlers gain confidence.

Child path

Preschoolers build readiness

Early literacy, math, Bible lessons, circle time, and hands-on centers prepare children for stronger classroom participation.

Child path

Older children stay supported

Pre-K, school-age care, homework support, enrichment, and summer camp keep children engaged through each next stage.

Family path

Tours answer first questions

Families can see the environment, ask about openings, and understand which classroom fits their child.

Family path

Enrollment stays organized

Start-date needs, subsidy questions, required documents, and Procare setup stay connected instead of scattered.

Family path

Updates stay clear

Flyers, events, reminders, and family resources are organized into easy website and parent-message updates.

Family path

Partnership continues

Parents and teachers keep communication open so children are known, supported, and ready for the next step.

About BDLA

A loving academy built around faith, structure, and school readiness

BDLA provides a nurturing, faith-centered environment where children are encouraged to learn, grow, and thrive every day.

Mission

To educate the whole child through excellent care, intentional teaching, Christian values, and family partnership.

Vision

To prepare confident, kind, school-ready learners who are equipped to grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

Dr. Beulah Duke

Founder spotlight

Beulah Duke Learning Academy proudly carries the legacy of Dr. Beulah Duke, a visionary leader whose passion for faith, education, and community service continues to inspire the academy's mission each day.

Dr. Duke believed that reading opens the door to opportunity and that every child deserves a strong foundation built on faith, learning, and love. Her dedication to children, families, and education established a lasting legacy of excellence that continues to guide our academy today.

Today, we honor her vision by providing a nurturing, faith-centered environment where children are encouraged to develop a love of learning, build strong literacy skills, and grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

“Her legacy lives on through every child we teach, every family we serve, and every life we touch.”

Cherelle Fields, Administrator and Director of Beulah Duke Learning Academy

Meet Our Administrator & Director

Cherelle Fields

Administrator & Director

Cherelle Fields serves as the Administrator and Director of Beulah Duke Learning Academy, providing leadership and oversight for the academy's operations, educational programs, staff development, family engagement, and strategic growth.

With a passion for children, families, and educational excellence, Cherelle is committed to ensuring that every child receives high-quality care and meaningful learning experiences in a safe, nurturing, and faith-centered environment.

Her experience in early childhood education, psychology, counseling, and program leadership allows her to support both the educational and operational success of the academy. She works closely with families, staff, church leadership, and community partners to strengthen programs, build meaningful relationships, and promote continuous improvement.

Under her leadership, Beulah Duke Learning Academy continues to uphold the vision established by Dr. Beulah Duke while preparing children for lifelong learning and success. She is dedicated to creating an environment where children feel loved, families feel supported, and educators feel empowered to make a positive difference every day.

Cherelle believes that strong schools are built on strong relationships and that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in a caring and encouraging environment.

“Educating Through Excellence is more than our slogan—it is our commitment to every child, every family, and every day.”

Structure and routines

Predictable daily rhythms help children feel secure and ready to learn.

School readiness

Classrooms build early literacy, math, problem solving, and independence.

Christian character

Teachers model kindness, patience, respect, service, and gratitude.

Family partnership

Families and teachers work together so each child is known and supported.

Programs

Classrooms designed for each stage of childhood

Each classroom has age-appropriate routines, hands-on learning, positive guidance, and school readiness goals.

01

6 weeks - 15 months

Infant Program

Gentle care, trusted routines, and sensory-rich moments that help babies feel safe while they grow.

  • Safe, nurturing care
  • Tummy time
  • Sensory exploration
  • Early language development
  • Feeding and sleep routines
  • Music and movement
  • Individualized care
02

16 months - 24 months

Toddler 1 Program

Young toddlers begin exploring independence, communication, and social interaction through hands-on learning and guided routines.

  • Language development
  • Social interaction
  • Early routines
  • Fine and gross motor development
  • Sensory play
  • Introduction to structured learning
  • Self-help skills
  • Positive guidance
03

2 - 3 years

Toddler 2 Program

Children build confidence, communication, and independence while preparing for preschool success.

  • Potty training support
  • Vocabulary growth
  • Early literacy
  • Shapes, colors, and numbers
  • Social-emotional development
  • Structured learning centers
  • Circle time participation
  • Independence skills
04

3 - 4 years

Preschool Program

Preschoolers practice classroom routines, early academics, Bible lessons, and social skills through active learning.

  • Kindergarten readiness foundations
  • Literacy
  • Writing readiness
  • Math concepts
  • Bible lessons
  • Social skills
  • Hands-on learning
05

4 - 5 years

Pre-K Program

Pre-K students strengthen academic confidence, independence, and critical thinking before kindergarten.

  • Kindergarten preparation
  • Reading readiness
  • STEM/STREAM activities
  • Critical thinking
  • Writing skills
  • Structured academic learning
06

5 - 12 years

School-Age Program

Before and after school care gives older children a steady place for homework, recreation, and enrichment.

  • Homework support
  • Transportation
  • Recreation
  • Enrichment activities
  • School closure day care
07

School-age summer programming

Summer Camp

Summer camp keeps children active with themed weeks, creative work, learning activities, and outdoor play.

  • Field trips
  • Fun themes
  • Learning activities
  • Arts and crafts
  • Outdoor play

Classroom photos and descriptions

A look inside daily life at BDLA

Families can see BDLA's classrooms, toddler learning moments, circle-time areas, hands-on play, and room setup through the academy's classroom photos.

Infant classroom with cribs, colorful play mats, toys, and supervised early learning activities

Infant Room

A calm, nurturing space for feeding routines, rest, tummy time, sensory exploration, and early bonding.

Toddler classroom activity photo paired with a colorful BDLA classroom overview

Toddler Classrooms

Busy, guided rooms where toddlers practice language, routines, motor skills, independence, and social play.

Pre-K classroom wall with daily schedule, calendar, alphabet, number, color, and shape learning materials

Preschool and Pre-K

Learning-rich classrooms for early literacy, math, Bible lessons, hands-on discovery, and kindergarten readiness.

School-age children working with learning materials while a teacher reads with students in the summer camp classroom

School-Age and Summer Camp

A dependable space for homework support, enrichment, recreation, seasonal themes, and summer activities.

School-age enrichment

A different look at how older children stay engaged

Older children stay active through creative projects, collaborative learning, movement, and age-appropriate enrichment that builds confidence and curiosity.

School-age children building with blocks and reading with a teacher in a bright classroom
School-age enrichment and reading time

Enrollment

Start with a tour, then choose the cleanest registration path

BDLA serves children ages six weeks through twelve years. Families can request a tour, ask about tuition and subsidy, receive registration guidance, and complete official records through Procare.

01

Request a tour

Call BDLA or open an email from the website so the director can confirm openings and answer first questions.

02

Share family needs

Confirm the classroom, schedule, subsidy/payment details, start-date needs, and any questions before forms are completed.

03

Follow registration guidance

BDLA will direct families to Procare or the approved intake process so official paperwork is not scattered across messages.

04

Finalize required documents

Submit health, immunization, identity, and registration documents before the first day.

Current family system

Use Procare for registration, payments, and parent communication

Procare remains the official system for family accounts, child information, tuition payments, balances, receipts, registration, and parent app communication.

RegistrationFamily details, child records, and enrollment information

PaymentsRegistration fees, tuition, balances, and payment history

CommunicationParent app messages, reminders, and account updates

Parent resources

Family information in one easy place

Handbooks, Procare access, schedules, policies, and family updates stay organized so parents know where to go next.

Document privacy noteOnline documents cannot be fully protected from screenshots, copying, or saving. Sensitive registration forms should stay in Procare or be shared directly by the office.

Parent handbook

Animated family guide with the official handbook PDF one tap away.

Open guide

Tuition and payments

Registration fees, balances, receipts, and family account payments are handled through Procare.

Open Procare

Illness & Infection Control Policy

Health, wellness, exclusion, and return-to-care guidance for keeping classrooms safe and predictable.

View policy

2026 Holiday Closing Schedule

The academy observes approved annual holiday closings and shares reminders with families.

View closings

Daily schedules

Classroom routines for meals, learning centers, outdoor play, rest, and pickup.

View schedules

Supply lists

Classroom supply needs vary by age group and are confirmed during enrollment.

Request list

Food and menus

Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack are part of the daily rhythm.

See meals

Schedule a tour

Call or open an email to request a tour while BDLA confirms classroom availability.

Request tour

Start registration

Contact BDLA for the approved registration path before Procare is used for official records and payments.

Contact BDLA

Newsletters and calendar

Family updates, classroom reminders, events, and seasonal announcements.

View updates

2026 Holiday Closing Schedule

The Academy will be closed in observance of the following holidays:

  • New Year's Day — Thursday, January 1, 2026
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day — Monday, January 19, 2026
  • Presidents' Day — Monday, February 16, 2026
  • Good Friday — Friday, April 3, 2026
  • Memorial Day — Monday, May 25, 2026
  • Juneteenth National Independence Day — Friday, June 19, 2026
  • Independence Day — Saturday, July 4, 2026
  • Labor Day — Monday, September 7, 2026
  • Veterans Day — Wednesday, November 11, 2026
  • Thanksgiving Day and the day after Thanksgiving — Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27, 2026
  • Christmas Eve and Christmas Day — Thursday, December 24 and Friday, December 25, 2026

Illness & Infection Control Policy

The health, safety, and well-being of children, families, and staff remain among BDLA's highest priorities. Exposure to common childhood illnesses can happen in group care, so the academy supports a healthy learning environment through sanitation, health monitoring, and family partnership.

  • Daily health monitoring and sanitation practices help protect children, families, and staff.
  • Families should keep children home when symptoms of illness are present or when exclusion guidance applies.
  • If a child becomes ill during the day, parents or guardians are contacted promptly for pickup and next steps.
  • Children may return when they meet the academy's wellness guidance and any applicable medical requirements.

Family resources

Helpful information for BDLA families

Find the handbook, holiday closings, enrollment information, and other frequently used family links in one place. Procare remains the official system for private family records and account communication.

Policies and family guidance

Parent handbook

Review BDLA policies, daily expectations, health guidance, and important information for enrolled families.Open handbook

Plan ahead

2026 holiday closings

Review the academy's published 2026 holiday closing schedule and contact the office with schedule questions.View closings

Speak with the academy

Tours and enrollment

Ask about current openings, classroom fit, tuition, subsidy questions, tour times, and official Procare next steps.Enrollment information

Information in one place

Family resources

Find daily schedules, health guidance, classroom information, contact details, and links for enrolled families.View resources

Plan ahead

Tours, closings, and current family information

Use these links to plan a visit, review published closing dates, and reach the most current family resources without relying on expired event announcements.

For same-day schedule changes or urgent questions, contact the academy directly or check Procare.

Call ahead

Tours by appointment

BDLA campusFamilies can call or email the academy to schedule a visit, ask questions, and talk through enrollment next steps.Plan a visit

Published for planning

Holiday closing schedule

BDLA family informationReview the academy's published holiday closing dates and confirm time-sensitive schedule questions with the office.View closings

Available anytime

Current resources and reminders

BDLA website and ProcareUse the family resource page for handbook, schedule, enrollment, contact, and official family-system links.Open resources

Daily schedules

A dependable day with room for discovery

The school day balances welcome time, meals, learning centers, outdoor play, rest, and afternoon pickup so children know what comes next.

7:00 - 8:30 AM

Arrival and free play

Warm welcomes, sign-in, and exploratory play as children settle into the day.

8:30 - 9:00 AM

Breakfast

A nutritious breakfast is served daily for children who arrive by 8:45 AM.

9:00 - 11:30 AM

Learning centers

Bible, language, math, science, art, music, movement, and hands-on activities.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Lunch and outdoor play

Lunch followed by outdoor time and physical activity.

12:30 - 2:30 PM

Rest and quiet time

Nap time after lunch with books and quiet activities available for early risers.

2:30 - 5:30 PM

Snack, play, and pickup

Afternoon snack, creative play, and individual activities until pickup.

Curriculum and learning

Intentional learning, active discovery, and Christian values

BDLA supports school readiness through developmentally appropriate instruction, learning centers, STREAMin3 curriculum, positive guidance, assessments, and family activities.

Developmentally appropriate learning

Teachers match activities to each age group so children can practice skills with confidence.

Christian education

Faith, Bible lessons, and character-building moments are woven into the classroom day.

STREAMin3 curriculum

Learning experiences support school readiness, inquiry, problem solving, and hands-on exploration.

Literacy-rich classrooms

Books, songs, print, conversation, and storytelling help children build language every day.

Social-emotional learning

Children practice sharing, self-regulation, empathy, routines, and positive guidance.

Spanish enrichment

Early exposure to Spanish can be introduced through songs, words, routines, and classroom activities.

Our Leadership & Staff

Educators committed to faith, care, and excellence

BDLA's leadership team and educators are committed to creating a nurturing, faith-centered environment where children are encouraged to learn, grow, and thrive every day.

BDLA educators support children through dependable routines, positive guidance, ongoing training, and close partnership with families.

Staff standards to highlight

  • Director leadership and classroom oversight
  • Lead teachers by classroom
  • Credentials and ongoing training
  • CPR and First Aid readiness
  • Background checks
  • Professional development

Family feedback and FAQ

Clear answers and open communication for BDLA families

Common questions about enrollment, daily care, meals, subsidy, Procare, safety, faith-based learning, and family communication are gathered here so parents can review next steps before contacting the academy.

Share Your Feedback

Questions, suggestions, concerns, and compliments are welcome because strong family partnerships create the best learning environment for children.

Feedback helps BDLA continue Educating Through Excellence and meet the needs of enrolled children and families.

Families may contact the academy directly or use public review links when they want to share their experience with the community.

What Families Are Saying
The staff at Beulah Duke Learning Academy truly care about the children. My child has grown academically, socially, and spiritually since enrolling.
The teachers are welcoming, professional, and always keep me informed about my child's progress.
I appreciate the family atmosphere and the dedication shown to every child.
What ages do you serve?

Beulah Duke Learning Academy serves children ages 6 weeks through 12 years old, including infants, toddlers, preschool, pre-kindergarten, before-school, after-school, and summer camp programs.

What are your hours of operation?

BDLA is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Do you accept child care subsidy (DSS)?

Yes. BDLA accepts Virginia Child Care Subsidy assistance. Families interested in applying should contact their local Department of Social Services for eligibility information.

Is transportation provided?

Yes. Transportation is available for eligible school-age children attending select local schools. Please contact the academy for transportation availability and routes.

What curriculum do you use?

BDLA utilizes STREAMin³ and developmentally appropriate learning experiences designed to promote school readiness, social-emotional growth, creativity, and hands-on learning.

Are meals provided?

Yes. BDLA participates in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and provides nutritious meals and snacks that meet USDA guidelines.

Can my child bring food or snacks from home?

To help ensure the safety of all children and comply with food program requirements, outside food and drinks are generally not permitted. Exceptions may be made for infants, documented food allergies, medical conditions, or special dietary needs when supported by appropriate medical documentation and physician authorization.

Can my child celebrate their birthday at school?

Yes. Families may provide store-bought, individually packaged treats for the class. All treats must be nut-free and approved by administration prior to the celebration. Please speak with your child's teacher in advance to coordinate a birthday celebration date and time.

Can my child bring toys from home?

BDLA recommends that toys and personal items remain at home unless requested by the teacher for a special activity or show-and-tell. The academy is not responsible for lost, damaged, or misplaced personal items.

Can I visit my child during the day?

Yes. Parents are welcome to visit at any time. BDLA encourages family involvement and open communication between home and school.

How will I know what my child is doing during the day?

Families receive updates through the Procare Engagement app, including messages, photos, daily reports, and important announcements. Parents are also encouraged to communicate directly with their child's teacher and participate in conferences and family events throughout the year.

What should my child bring to school?

Children should arrive dressed comfortably and appropriately for both indoor and outdoor activities. Families are responsible for providing a complete change of clothing. Infants and toddlers should also bring diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, and any other items needed for daily care. A detailed supply list is provided before the child's first day.

What happens if my child becomes sick at school?

If a child becomes ill during the day, parents will be contacted immediately. Children displaying symptoms of illness may be required to go home and remain out of care according to the illness policy.

What is your discipline policy?

BDLA uses positive guidance techniques, redirection, encouragement, and age-appropriate conflict resolution strategies. The program focuses on teaching appropriate behaviors while maintaining a safe and nurturing environment.

Can someone else pick up my child?

Yes, but only individuals listed on the child's authorized pick-up form may pick up the child. A valid photo ID may be required.

What happens if I am late picking up my child?

Children must be picked up by closing time. Late pick-up fees may apply according to the Parent Handbook.

What are your drop-off and pick-up procedures?

For the safety of all children, parents and authorized individuals must sign children in and out each day. Children are only released to individuals listed on the authorized pick-up form with proper identification.

What should I do if my child will be absent?

Please notify the academy as soon as possible if your child will be absent or arriving late so BDLA can maintain accurate attendance records and ensure the child's well-being.

How do you communicate emergency closings or delays?

Families are notified through the Procare Engagement app, phone calls, text messages, email, and social media when necessary.

How often do children go outside?

Weather permitting, children participate in outdoor play and gross motor activities daily. Outdoor experiences are an important part of children's physical development, learning, and overall well-being.

Are teachers trained in CPR and First Aid?

Yes. Staff members maintain required training and certifications in accordance with Virginia requirements and academy policies.

Do you offer summer camp?

Yes. The summer camp program includes educational activities, special events, field trips, water play, enrichment opportunities, and fun learning experiences for school-age children.

Do you provide diapers and wipes?

No. Families are responsible for providing diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, and other personal care items needed for their child.

Do you accept children who are not potty trained?

Yes. BDLA understands that children develop at different rates and works closely with families during the potty-training process.

What is your teacher-to-child ratio?

Beulah Duke Learning Academy follows Virginia's religiously exempt child day center requirements to ensure children are supervised in a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment.

Do you have a waiting list?

Enrollment is based on classroom availability. When a classroom is full, families may request to be added to the waiting list.

Are parents allowed to volunteer or participate in events?

Yes. BDLA encourages family involvement through classroom activities, special events, field trips, family engagement opportunities, and volunteer activities throughout the year.

Is Beulah Duke Learning Academy a faith-based program?

Yes. BDLA is a faith-based learning environment that incorporates Christian values, character development, and biblical principles into daily activities and interactions.

How do I enroll my child?

Enrollment begins with a tour of Beulah Duke Learning Academy. Once a family decides to move forward, an orientation is scheduled. During orientation, families complete the enrollment packet, submit required records and forms, pay applicable registration fees, and provide required supplies. Enrollment is complete once required documentation has been received and approved, and a start date has been established.

Is there a registration fee?

Yes. A non-refundable registration fee is required to secure enrollment and reserve the child's space.

What holidays are you closed?

BDLA's 2026 holiday closing schedule includes New Year's Day (Thursday, January 1); Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Monday, January 19); Presidents' Day (Monday, February 16); Good Friday (Friday, April 3); Memorial Day (Monday, May 25); Juneteenth National Independence Day (Friday, June 19); Independence Day (Saturday, July 4); Labor Day (Monday, September 7); Veterans Day (Wednesday, November 11); Thanksgiving Day and the day after Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27); and Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (Thursday, December 24 and Friday, December 25).

What makes Beulah Duke Learning Academy different?

BDLA is committed to Educating Through Excellence by providing a nurturing, faith-based learning environment where children are encouraged to grow academically, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

Careers

Ask the office about current hiring needs, classroom roles, and staff requirements.

Events calendar

A place for closures, family events, graduation updates, and summer camp dates.

Family workshops

Short parent learning events, resources, and community conversations.

Transportation info

Families can ask the office about current school-age transportation details.

Recognition

Licensing, accreditation, and community partnerships help families understand BDLA's standards.

Community partnerships

Library visits and partner programs can be highlighted as they are scheduled.

Contact BDLA

Schedule a tour or ask about enrollment

Families are welcome to call or email to ask about openings, tuition, subsidy, tours, required documents, and Procare registration.

Address300 Liberty Street
Chesapeake, Virginia 23324

Phone(757) 494-3050

Fax(757) 494-8882

Emailbeulahdukelearningacademy1@gmail.com

HoursMonday - Friday: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM

300 Liberty Street, Chesapeake, VA 23324Open directions
Call NowEnroll TodayProcare