SPRD to open new preschool program

Sisters Park & Recreation District will open a pre-school enrichment program beginning on November 1.

The move is in response to the concerns of many parents who came forward after the closure of the Duck Duck Goose preschool and daycare program.

Those parents came to a SPRD board meeting and asked if the board would consider a proposal to open a preschool. The board challenged them to form an advisory committee of at least five parents and hold an information night for the community.

That community meeting was held on September 14. Other providers in town were present and were given the chance to share what they offered in services to the community. From that meeting a preschool advisory committee of eight people was formed.

That group decided that they wanted to create something different than what was being offered. They came up with a plan and a budget, and came back to the board with a proposal for the program.

According to SPRD business manager Anne Heath, the board has approved their proposal based on the understanding that the program will meet the mission of the district by providing recreation and enrichment, that the parent advisory board will stay committed and involved in the preschool program, and the program will be cost-neutral to the district.

Sisters Park & Recreation District has posted a position for a full-time preschool instructor, and plans to also hire a teacher's assistant as needed, Heath reported. It is anticipated that the program will fill to its capacity of 16 children. Parents are encouraged to sign up early. Heath reported that SPRD is also working closely with state licensing agencies to ensure that the program meets all industry standards, and is fully licensed.

The preschool will run Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon. There will be an aftercare option from noon to 5:30 p.m. Parents may elect to register their children for three to five days, may choose only preschool, or register for full days.

Packets are available for pickup at SPRD, and are due back no later than October 15 at 5 p.m.

For more information call Anne Heath at 541-549-2091.