Date: 30 Jan 2024

In a significant stride toward enhancing early childhood education, Vernon Independent School District (VISD) has joined forces with Child Care Partners (CCP) to inaugurate a state-of-the-art early learning center in Vernon. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive and accessible child care services to the community, marking a pivotal moment for families in Vernon and Wilbarger County.

The collaboration between Vernon ISD and Child Care Partners stems from a series of discussions and presentations focused on addressing the child care needs of the community effectively. Dr. Kermit Ward, Superintendent of Vernon ISD, emphasized the district’s commitment to laying a robust educational foundation for the children of Vernon and its surrounding areas. He remarked, “We believe children who attend this facility will receive a strong, solid education foundation to build upon as they transition to the first grade.”

The new facility is a beacon of hope for working families, offering peace of mind through quality supervision and care. Operating year-round for 11 hours each day, the center is designed to accommodate the diverse schedules of Wilbarger County families.

Keri Goins, Executive Director of Child Care Partners, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the shared vision of supporting the community’s youngest members. She mentioned, “Dr. Ward’s passion for children resonated with us. His acknowledgment of infants as part of our shared responsibility was a clear indication that this partnership was destined for success.”

The early learning center is set to feature a robust, evidence-based curriculum known as Frog Street, catering to preschoolers and ensuring a well-rounded early education experience. What sets this initiative apart is the inclusion of services for infants and toddlers, a testament to the comprehensive approach of VISD and CCP.

• Vernon ISD partners with Child Care Partners to open an innovative early learning center.
• The center aims to provide accessible, quality care and education for infants to school-aged children.
• Operating hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., catering to the needs of working families in the community.
• The inclusion of an evidence-based curriculum, Frog Street, ensures a solid educational foundation for preschoolers.
• The center will operate in VISD’s Central School Facility, with an anticipated opening in late spring 2024.

The new center, located at VISD’s Central School Facility, is a testament to the collaborative spirit and shared vision of providing top-tier education and care services. While the exact opening date is yet to be announced, the community eagerly anticipates its inauguration in late spring 2024, marking a new chapter in the region’s commitment to nurturing future generations.

The partnership between Vernon ISD and Child Care Partners is more than an alliance; it’s a commitment to the future of our children. With its innovative approach, comprehensive curriculum, and dedication to inclusivity, the new early learning center is poised to become a cornerstone of community development and a model for other districts to follow. As the center prepares to open its doors, it stands as a beacon of progress, promising a brighter, well-educated future for the children of Vernon and Wilbarger County.

Call to Action:

Stay tuned for more updates on the opening of the new early learning center and learn how you can support or get involved in this groundbreaking initiative.