What are Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning?
Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning (CHS) are a network of cost-free early childhood education centers in Central Pennsylvania providing weekday childcare and high-quality learning for children from six weeks old through age five.
CHS is not a traditional daycare or preschool. The CHS program model focuses on play-based learning, early childhood development, and school readiness, helping children build the social, emotional, and cognitive skills they need to succeed in kindergarten and beyond.
CHS supports families by providing a nurturing environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive during the most important developmental years.
Who can attend Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning?
Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning serve children from income-eligible families who may benefit from access to high-quality early education and additional family support.
Children can enroll starting at six weeks of age through preschool, allowing families to access early childhood programs that support development during the critical early years of life.
Is there a cost to attend Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning?
No. Families who qualify do not pay tuition to attend Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning.
The program is designed to make high-quality early childhood education accessible to families who might otherwise face barriers to early learning opportunities. In addition to education, children may receive meals, developmental support, and family resources at no cost.
What curriculum and learning approach do the schools use?
Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning use a play-based, research-informed early childhood education approach.
The curriculum focuses on the whole child, supporting development in key areas such as:
- Social and emotional skills
- Early literacy and language development
- Cognitive development and problem solving
- Physical and motor development
Teachers create engaging learning experiences that help children build curiosity, confidence, and foundational skills for lifelong learning.
What services do Catherine Hershey Schools provide for children and families?
In addition to early education, CHS schools provide a variety of family-centered supports, which may include:
- Nutritious meals and snacks for children
- Developmental assessments and support services
- Family engagement and parent resources
- Connections to health, wellness, and community services
These supports help ensure children and families have the resources they need to succeed both in school and at home.
Where are Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning located?
Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning operate early childhood education centers in Central Pennsylvania, with locations currently open in:
- Hershey
- Harrisburg
- Middletown
Additional CHS locations are planned in other Pennsylvania communities as the organization continues to expand access to early learning opportunities.
Why are the schools named after Catherine “Kitty” Hershey?
The schools are named in honor of Catherine “Kitty” Hershey, the wife of chocolate entrepreneur and philanthropist Milton Hershey.
Catherine Hershey was known for her compassion and dedication to helping children. Naming the schools after her reflects the Hershey family’s legacy of supporting education, caring for children, and strengthening communities.
Who funds the Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning?
Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning are funded by Milton Hershey School (MHS).
Milton Hershey School established and continues to support CHS as part of its mission to expand access to education and opportunity for children and families.
By funding CHS, Milton Hershey School is extending its long-standing commitment to helping children succeed, beginning in the earliest years of development.
What is the financial structure of the Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning?
Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning (CHS) is a tax-exempt, subsidiary of the Milton Hershey School.
Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning is a $350 million project to build six Early Childhood Education Centers across Pennsylvania under the broader Milton Hershey School umbrella.
While CHS centers are affiliated with Milton Hershey School, they function as separate entities, each with its own staff and operational approach distinct from the school’s traditional model.
Will I have to commit to anything to enroll my child at CHS?
Yes, we believe a strong partnership between CHS and families is critical. You can see required family commitments and expectations here.
Does CHS prioritize families from certain school districts?
Yes, CHS prioritizes applications from children and families who live, work, or attend school in the community where a CHS Center is located. If your family does not live, work, or attend school in the priority school districts, we still encourage you to apply as we consider many aspects of a family’s circumstances to determine eligibility and prioritization. You can find our priority school districts here.
While children will not be automatically admitted to Milton Hershey School upon turning 5, they are welcome to apply for admission to MHS. It is expected that many children will enroll in their local school districts, and CHS looks forward to partnering with families and schools to support a successful transition.
Please visit the CHS Admissions page for additional information.
What employment opportunities are available?
Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning continuously seeks passionate individuals to be a part of our mission, bring in new creative ideas, and love their work. Employment opportunities are updated frequently on the CHS Careers page.
