About Our Center

Nurturing Hearts and Minds in Lakeland Since 1987

Building bright futures through a Christ-centered high-quality education, intentional & experienced care, and a commitment to ensuring every child thrives.

Our Story

Established in 1987, Lake Gibson Child Development Center has been serving families in the Lakeland community for over 35 years. As an outreach ministry of Lake Gibson Church, we've created a nurturing environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive while developing a strong foundation for their future.

Our Mission

To provide quality, Christ-centered education and care that helps children achieve spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth at their own unique pace.

At LGCDC, we believe every family deserves a place where their children can grow, learn, experience the love of Jesus, and feel at home. Our staff welcomes all children to explore, discover, make friends, and develop confidence in a nurturing environment. Through experienced teachers, engaging activities, and genuine care, we create a space where every child and family feels that they truly belong.

You Belong Here

EXPLORE OUR PROGRAMS

Our Team

Our experienced educators are the heart of our program. Each staff member is professionally trained, certified, and committed to providing the highest quality care for your child. Through ongoing professional development and dedication to early childhood education, our team creates a nurturing environment where children can thrive.

Staff Requirements:

  • Must be 18 or older and have a High School Diploma or GED

  • Complete Level 2 DCF screening and background check

  • Complete 45 hours of DCF childcare training

  • Maintain current CPR and First Aid certification

  • Complete training in Fire Safety and Bloodborne Pathogens

  • Before & After School staff must complete Transportation Safety training

Career Opportunities

What Makes Us Special

With over three decades of experience, we've built a program that combines the best in early childhood education with a warm, family-centered approach. Our clean and well-managed facilities and curriculum are designed to meet the needs of busy families while maintaining our commitment to excellence in education and the highest level of care. We truly understand and value the responsibility and privilege you have entrusted us with when choosing to join our program.

LGCDC Leadership

Lori Long

Executive Director


  • Executive Director

    My name is Lori Long, and I am honored to serve as the new Executive Director. I bring over 25 years of experience in education and early childhood leadership, including my time as a Polk County Teacher and Academic Coach, as well as Executive Director of Small Wonders at Highland Park Church (now Church for the One) in South Lakeland. Under my leadership, that program was honored as The Lakeland Ledger’s Best of the Best for three consecutive years. I am deeply committed to bringing that same level of excellence, integrity, and innovation to our program here at Lake Gibson.

    Our vision is clear and purpose-driven: to provide a Christ-centered, academically strong foundation that prepares every child for both school and life. My goal is for each student to graduate from our program loving Jesus, reading confidently, recognizing Kindergarten sight words, demonstrating basic math proficiency, and exploring STEM concepts through hands-on learning.

    Polk County data shows that fewer than 50% of third graders currently read on grade level, a statistic we are determined to change. The foundation we build together in these early years will set our students apart, equipping them to enter Kindergarten academically prepared, emotionally confident, and spiritually grounded.

    I promise you a program marked by safety, excellence, and joy where children are actively engaged in learning, guided by passionate teachers, and surrounded by staff who genuinely love what they do.

    Thank you for your continued trust, partnership, and support as we grow together into this next season of excellence and expansion. Please reach out to me with any questions or concerns!!

    With gratitude and excitement,

    Lori Long

Julie Waymire

Assistant Director


  • Julie has dedicated her life and ministry to LGCDC for 31 years! She is our backbone and our cherished Assistant Director!

Come see firsthand how we can be part of your child's journey!

Schedule a Tour