Our Mission
Holy Anointed House of Prayer Early Learning Center (HAHOP ELC) is dedicated to providing every child with a safe, nurturing, and academically enriching environment. Our goal is to foster the development of essential skills and a love of learning that prepares children to become successful students and lifelong learners.
Get To Know Us
Holy Anointed House of Prayer Early Learning Center was established under the leadership and vision of Pastor Lionel Roberts, who was led by the Holy Spirit to create a nurturing educational space for young children. Located in the Columbia Park neighborhood—formerly the St. Bernard Housing Development—HAHOP ELC opened its doors on August 19, 2024.
We serve children ages 6 weeks to 4 years, providing a loving, supportive, and developmentally rich environment. Our low pupil-to-teacher ratio allows us to support each child’s individual creative, cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development. In addition to our early learning program, we offer after-school care for students in grades K-12.
Our dedicated staff members hold one or more of the following certifications and degrees:
Child Development Associate (CDA)
Early Childhood Ancillary Certificate (ECAC)
Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE)
Master’s Degree in Educational Administration
We currently accept private pay and children transferring in who already qualify for Child Care Assistance (CCAP). Full CCAP enrollment will be available beginning with the 2026–2027 academic year.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Considering Enrolling?
What We Offer
At Holy Anointed House of Prayer Early Learning Center, we use The Creative Curriculum® for Infants, Toddlers & Twos—a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate approach that nurtures each child’s unique growth.
This evidence-based curriculum fosters creativity, confidence, and critical thinking, emphasizing individualized instruction, responsive routines, and adaptable learning experiences to ensure every child receives the attention and support needed to thrive.
Our teachers develop weekly lesson plans tailored to each child’s developmental stage, with special attention to integrating goals and strategies for children with disabilities. By focusing on milestones and upcoming developmental steps, teachers provide consistent support for transitions, promoting growth at every stage.
Learning occurs throughout the day—through play, daily routines, caregiving moments, and peer socialization—turning each interaction into an opportunity for development.
Lambs (6 wks - 1 yr old)
In the Lambs Area, our youngest learners are welcomed into a calm, nurturing environment focused on the earliest stages of development. Daily routines include story time, sing-alongs, sensory play, and age-appropriate arts and crafts. Our goal is to support emerging motor and verbal skills while creating a warm, engaging space where infants begin their learning journey.
Doves (1 yr - 2 yrs old)
The Doves Area assists toddlers in taking their next steps in their development through engaging, play-based learning. This program continues to strengthen motor and language skills while introducing foundational concepts like colors, shapes, numbers, and letters. Through music, stories, art, and interactive play, children begin to express themselves, build social skills, and gain confidence. Potty training is gently introduced and supported as children show readiness.
Eagles (3 yrs - 4 yrs old)
The Eagles Area supports the transition to formal schooling with a balance of structured learning and creative discovery. Children build on early literacy, math, and science through hands-on activities and interactive lessons. Circle time, music, movement, and arts encourage communication and collaboration. As they grow socially and emotionally, children continue developing independence and self-regulation. Potty training support remains available as needed.
Hear From Our Families
Our Dedicated Team
At HAHOP ELC, our compassionate, experienced educators are committed to nurturing young learners. Each staff member brings unique strengths and a shared passion for supporting children’s growth and well-being, creating a safe, engaging, and faith-centered environment where every child can thrive.
Pastor Lionel A. Roberts, Sr., Owner
Deacon Anthony L. Roman, Sr., Director
Cavada Smith, Lead Infant Teacher
Rose Joseph, Assistant Infant-Toddler Teacher
Letesha Mathieu, Lead Toddler Teacher
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A longtime leader in both education and community service, Pastor Roberts brings more than 25 years of experience and a passion for mentorship. He holds multiple degrees and certifications, including a Louisiana Teacher Certification in Special Education from the University of New Orleans. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to guiding and empowering youth and families.
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With over 42 years in education, Deacon Roman brings seasoned leadership and a deep commitment to early childhood development. He holds multiple degrees (in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, and a Master’s in Educational Administration), and has served as an elementary principal. His ongoing efforts to expand his knowledge and secure critical funding help drive the center’s growth and sustainability.
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As Lead Infant Teacher, Cavada Smith, brings years of professional experience and a deep passion for early childhood development. With a background in community service and active involvement in Holy Anointed House of Prayer, she is dedicated to nurturing the growth and well-being of young children in a supportive, caring environment.
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Rose Joseph, an Assistant Infant-Toddler Teacher at HAHOP Early Learning Center, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to early childhood education. After a distinguished 31.5-year federal career, she now focuses on supporting the growth and development of young children, drawing from her background in outstanding service and commitment to the community.
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Letesha “Tesha” Mathieu brings 7 years of experience in early childhood education. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) and plans to pursue her Early Childhood Ancillary Certificate. Known for her dedication and insight, she uplifts each child’s day and supports their growth. Tesha offers valuable guidance, takes initiative, and shows strong leadership—demonstrating great promise as a future director in the field.
Media Gallery
Get a feel for life at Holy Anointed House Of Prayer Early Learning Center. Our Media Gallery features student and classroom photos that offer a closer look at our nurturing early learning program.
Virtual Tour
We invite you to explore our center through this brief video tour. From our thoughtfully designed child-centric spaces to our dedicated staff, you’ll see how we create a safe, engaging environment where children grow, learn, and thrive.
Testimonials
“I can’t say enough good things about our experience with HAHOP ELC. They have truly helped my child grow in so many ways! Since starting there, he’s been talking more, expressing himself better, and even beginning to read a little — which is such an exciting milestone! His potty training journey is going really well too, thanks to their patient and supportive approach. The staff is incredibly nurturing, attentive, and genuinely invested in each child’s development. I’m so grateful for the love and care they show every day. They are truly awesome!”
— JAMITHA, PARENT
“From the very beginning, the staff have been nurturing, patient, and genuinely invested in my daughter's growth. Every day she comes home happy, excited and I can see just how much she’s learned. It’s clear that the environment is not only safe and structured but also full of love and encouragement. Thank you for being such a positive part of her early years—I couldn’t ask for a better place!”
— CEYANN, PARENT
“Holy Anointed House of Prayer Early Learning Center has a dynamic learning and teaching atmosphere. It’s set apart from any learning center. Since attending, Cayden has come home every week with a new word bank and is constantly evolving. He learned to spell his name in just the first two weeks of attending. His relationship with his teachers and classmates is what any parent could wish for. My child is loved and cared for beyond measure, and I am forever grateful.”
— CRISTYAL, PARENT
“HAHOP ELC has helped my baby reach significant milestones in less than four months of being at the center. My baby loves all of the teachers/staff — and they love her! When she jumps out of my arms to go to school every morning, I know that she is being loved and cared for at HAHOP ELC!”
— TRANEITA, PARENT
“One of the most remarkable changes I've seen in my daughter is her increased interactivity and confidence. The nurturing environment and engaging activities provided by the staff have helped her blossom into a curious and outgoing child who now interacts with others with enthusiasm and joy..
I highly recommend HAHOP ELC to any parent seeking a trustworthy and caring childcare provider.”
— MS. JAMES, PARENT
Get In Touch
Interested in enrolling or learning more about our programs? Fill out the form below and a member of our team will get back to you soon.
Location
1373 Senate Street
New Orleans, LA 70122
Hours
Monday - Friday: 7am to 5pm
Closed on weekends.
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