The town's Youth Services Bureau has received $107,000 from the state Department of Education's School Readiness Grant Program.
Mayor Jason McCoy said on Monday that the grant is for the 2011-12 academic year and will be used to help fund 13 pre-school slots in Vernon’s School Readiness Program.
“Early childhood development and school readiness are important to both our children and the community,” McCoy said.“Our town’s School Readiness Program is an essential investment in the community. This grant will help to further advance that investment by providing additional assistance and ensuring that Vernon’s young children are afforded a quality, pre-kindergarten experience and education, as well as a smooth transition from pre-school to kindergarten.”
The School Readiness Program is a nationally accredited program run in conjunction with the National Association for the Education of Young Children. The 13 subsidized slots have been contracted by the Hockanum Valley Child Day Care Center, McCoy said.
“Vernon is fortunate to have such a high quality pre-school program that is nationally accredited,” said Vernon Youth Services Director Alan Slobodien. “Hockanum Valley Child Day Care Center is a leader in early childhood education and works in close alliance with the Vernon Public Schools.”
Added McCoy, “Vernon has the best school system in Connecticut and school readiness is a major factor in our success. This grant is a big win for Vernon’s residents and their children."
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