Learning, growing and leading together at the UTC Children’s Center

In November, six Health and Physical Education students at UTC taught physical education lessons at the UTC Children's Center at Brown Academy. These lessons taught children the importance of taking care of their bodies and finding happiness through physical activity. Photo by Angela Foster.

In November, six UTC Health and Physical Education students taught physical education lessons at the UTC Children’s Center at Brown Academy. These lessons taught children the importance of taking care of their bodies and finding happiness through physical activity. Photo by Angela Foster.

The Moc motto rang out in the hallway of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Children’s Center, marking a spirited end to a semester of teaching and discovery.

“I’m a Moc I say. I will do my best every day. I will take care of my body and mind. To my classmates I will be kind. I’m a Moc I say, Hooray!”

The preschoolers beamed as they joined in—only slightly more excited than the UTC students leading the chant. This final cheer marked the end of a carnival where children moved through activity stations designed by UTC students.

For Dr. Jamie Harvey, an associate professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance, it was another highlight in her two decades of fostering connections between University students and the UTC Children’s Center.

“These moments are what it’s all about,” Harvey said. “The kids aren’t just learning skills—they’re building connections with our students and faculty. That excitement sticks with them.”

Where learning starts and careers begin

The UTC Children’s Center serves infants to pre-kindergarten children, offering a dynamic learning environment that goes beyond traditional child care. Located within the Brown Academy building near the UTC campus, the center is a hub for hands-on teaching and collaboration.

The center welcomes children of UTC staff, faculty and families from the broader community. Its credentialed educators work with UTC students to create engaging, innovative lessons that cater to young learners.

“This is a lab school,” said Shawnelle Winters, who has taught at the center for 10 years. “We’re not just watching kids—we’re teaching them. The children love having UTC students around.

“We call them ‘our UTC friends’ and always look forward to their visits.”

Staff also regularly take the children on walks around campus, reinforcing their sense of connection to the University and introducing them to the wider world of learning.

Students discover new perspectives

For UTC students like Shayne Huffman, teaching at the center has been eye-opening. He started the semester with plans to teach high school or middle school, drawing on his high school football coaching experience.

“This really opened my eyes and opened up my field,” said Huffman, a junior education major from Mt. Juliet, Tennessee. “It’s been good. It’s been challenging, but it’s fun. I never thought I’d work with kids this young. It helped me find a rhythm and showed me a side of teaching I hadn’t considered before.”

One of Huffman’s favorite moments was teaching the preschoolers the parachute activity, a classic exercise that fosters teamwork and coordination. It was memorable for him, knowing he was helping them develop a fundamental skill they could carry through their lives.

Huffman’s time at the UTC Children’s Center highlights its dual role: nurturing young learners while giving UTC students hands-on preparation for careers in education.

Three generations, one center

For Harvey, the UTC Children’s Center holds a special place in her heart. Her son, Kell, attended the center 35 years ago; her grandson, Thomas Mark, is now a preschooler there.

“Seeing my grandson here, learning and growing, reminds me why this work matters. It’s about creating a strong start—not just for the kids, but for the students, too,” said Harvey, sharing her trademark enthusiasm in a Power C sweatshirt and a whimsical Cat in the Hat hat.

The UTC Children’s Center at Brown Academy is one of three in downtown Chattanooga, along with the UTC Children’s Center at Battle Academy and Little Miss Mag.

With its hands-on teaching methods and strong campus connections, UTC’s children’s centers reflect the University’s commitment to education and community impact.