ABOUT US

Where curiosity meets confidence — and every child is inspired to succeed.

About

KIDS CARE ELEMENTARY (KCE)

Welcome to Kids Care Elementary, a tuition-free, K–6 public charter school in Columbus, Ohio, where every child is seen, supported, and inspired to succeed. We provide a hands-on, project-based education that helps scholars build confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love for learning.

At KCE, scholars learn by doing — exploring real-world challenges, collaborating with peers, and using technology to think critically and problem-solve with purpose. Our daily small-group instruction ensures every child gets the attention and support they need to grow academically and personally. Rooted in care, curiosity, and community, our school nurtures leadership, teamwork, and a strong sense of belonging.

Kids Care Elementary scholar.
Kids Care Elementary Principal, Christopher Sanders.

Christopher Sanders

Principal

Contact Principal Sanders

KCE logo.

Richard Davis

Dean of Climate and Culture

Contact Dean Davis

PLA93 Logo.

School Office

Main Office: (614) 498.0220

Contact the School Office

Redefining public education — empowering scholars, strengthening communities

Our Mission

Kids Care Elementary (KCE) aims to provide high-quality academic and personal development opportunities through project-based learning, with the intent to become a model of educational excellence. The Kids Care team joins the parents and community to empower the students to develop skills in becoming independent and self-sufficient individuals who will succeed and contribute responsibly to their community. 

Our Core Values

Our school is a place where all students are encouraged to strive for excellence from a holistic approach; academically, socially and emotionally. By applying project-based learning, our staff and students create an atmosphere of student-led learning, based on the importance of connection-making, collaboration and choice. 

K-6

Serving grades K-6

100%

Tuition- Free

2026

Now Enrolling

Together, these achievements reflect our commitment to academic excellence, character development,
and empowering every scholar to learn, lead, and thrive.

Virtually

Tour KCE

We’re delighted to welcome you to Kids Care Elementary. Take a moment to explore our vibrant campus through the virtual tour video and get a firsthand look at the spaces where our students learn, grow, and thrive. If you have any questions about enrollment or want to learn more about our school community, please don’t hesitate to call us at (614) 498-0220. We’re here to help and look forward to connecting with you!

Partners in Excellence

PLA@93 female scholar in the classroom.

ABOUT

Phalen Leadership Academies

Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) is a nonprofit network of public schools committed to helping children excel academically and grow in character. PLA partners with schools like Kids Care Elementary to provide rigorous instruction, strong family engagement, and a caring environment where every scholar can thrive.

A holistic, evidence-based model for educational excellence that impacts scholars, families and communities.

READY TO HELP YOUR CHILD SOAR?

Enroll at KIDS CARE ELEMENTARY

 

At Kids Care Elementary, we believe learning should be active, engaging, and meaningful. Our project-based and technology-driven approach helps scholars connect what they learn in class to the world around them — inspiring curiosity, problem-solving, and confidence.

We offer a variety of programs designed to support the whole child, including social-emotional learning, small-group instruction, enrichment activities, and family engagement opportunities. Every scholar has access to hands-on projects, digital learning tools, and a caring community that celebrates growth and individuality.

Our mission is to empower children to love learning, dream big, and achieve success in school and in life.

Academic Excellence

Our teachers deliver rigorous, student-centered instruction that helps scholars think critically, collaborate effectively, and reach their fullest potential.

Family Engagement

Families and teachers work hand in hand through open communication, events, and resources that strengthen the home–school connection.

Innovation & Data-Driven Growth

We use technology and real-time data to personalize instruction, track progress, and ensure every scholar grows at their own pace.

Our Commitment

KCE sets high expectations in a joyful, inclusive environment that nurtures creativity, leadership, and a lifelong love for learning.

McKinney-Vento Act

The McKinney-Vento Act protects scholars from discrimination based on their lack of a permanent residence. Homeless Scholars are eligible to receive a variety of services including: transportation services, free meals under the school nutrition programs, limited English proficiency class, gifted and talented programs, and special education services based on a scholar’s eligibility. Homeless Scholars will not be denied enrollment based on lack of proof of residency. Please consult the McKinney-Vento Act Liaison if you need assistance. The PLA Network does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability or national origin in any employment and/or educational opportunity. No person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination in any program or activity for which the PLA Network Board is responsible or for which it receives financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education. The PLA Network values diversity. Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) is committed to making its websites accessible for all, including individuals with disabilities, and strives to ensure accessibility currently and as new technologies emerge. PLA welcomes questions and input on its sites' accessibility at each development phase. Please contact our Call Center at 888.655.0777 or submit feedback to Communications@PhalenAcademies.org if you encounter an issue accessing any portion of the network's websites.

Click here to learn more about the network's digital accessibility efforts.