Our Story:

Our Mission:
The Learning Center (TLC) is a Christ-centered community where students are encouraged to become all God created them to be. We support students from early childhood through high school as they grow in faith, knowledge, and character—within a nurturing environment where friendships flourish and purpose is strengthened.

How It All Began:
In 1989, four homeschooling families gathered in the Colemans’ living room with a shared vision: to build community, encourage one another, and support their children’s education in a meaningful, faith-filled way.

At that time, homeschooling was rare—often associated with the ultra-wealthy, off-the-grid, or countercultural groups. But David and Sally Coleman, new to the Pittsburgh area, felt called to something different: a Christ-centered, hands-on, unit-study approach that could bless more families.

This small gathering became the seed of what we now know as TLC.

Growing Roots in the Church:
As interest grew, the Colemans reached out to their new church, Holiday Park Baptist Church (now Holiday Park Bible Church), and were warmly welcomed to use their facilities twice a week. With just enough children to form two age-based groups, TLC officially began its journey.

Over time, and through God’s continued blessing, TLC expanded to five groups. A few years later, to better serve older students, the program added a high school arm: the Highschool Enrichment and Learning Program (HELP).

A Unique Approach to Learning:
TLC and HELP function differently but with a shared purpose:

For TLC students, optional enrichment classes are available during the early morning hours, between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM, before the core program begins. These one-hour sessions provide additional learning experiences in a relaxed setting. Offerings include Younger and Older Art, Journal Writing, and Bible & Breakfast—designed to encourage creativity, reflection, and spiritual growth in a low-pressure, engaging environment. Families may choose to enroll in one or more of these classes based on interest and availability.

Both programs charge tuition and fees to cover teacher salaries, aides, and learning materials. All teachers are carefully chosen for their Christian testimony, teaching experience, and commitment to our mission.

Built by Faith & Volunteers:
For more than 30 years, David and Sally Coleman have served faithfully as unpaid administrators, providing leadership and heart behind the scenes. TLC/HELP is also built on the generosity of many dedicated moms and volunteers.

We give special thanks to: MaryAlice Newborn, Beth Detwiler, Sandy Muller, Whitney Patterson, and Erin Roberts—along with countless others whose selfless contributions have helped make TLC/HELP what it is today.

A New Chapter: More Space to Grow:
Recently, TLC/HELP outgrew its longtime home and entered a new season of growth and transition. We’re excited to now meet at Grace Baptist Church in Monroeville (4518 Northern Pike), where large classrooms and new opportunities await.

We’re incredibly grateful to Pastors Tim O’Brien and Chris Bell for welcoming us with open arms. As we launch into the 2025–2026 school year, we look forward to serving our families in this new, expanded space—for the very first time!

Join the TLC/HELP Family:
Whether you’re new to homeschooling or looking for a supportive, Christ-centered learning community, we invite you to discover what makes TLC/HELP a place where children grow in faith, learning, and lifelong friendships.

Come and be part of a legacy that continues to thrive—by God’s grace. We can’t wait to welcome you personally!

With warmest regards,
David and Sally Coleman

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