MAS calls for community support to address local childcare crisis
News | Published on November 25, 2024 at 12:39pm CST
•School seeking pledges to keep childcare viable
The Pope County community and surrounding areas are facing a critical childcare shortage.
Due to financial challenges, essential childcare services are in jeopardy, creating difficulty for families and businesses alike.
Minnewaska Area Schools, in collaboration with Lakes Area Enrichment Center (LAEC), is looking to provide a solution.
To address this crisis, Minnewaska Area Schools renovated the lower level of the Starbuck campus to provide a safe, modern, and accessible environment for LAEC childcare services after the organization needed to vacate its Glenwood location last spring. This modernized space enabled LAEC to resume operations of its childcare on March 1, 2024, restoring vital childcare services for the area.
However, financial sustainability remains a pressing challenge for the LAEC organization.
On November 6, the MAS school board heard directly from LAEC representatives about the budget implications and the importance of maintaining reliable childcare options to support the well-being and economic stability of the community during a special work session. It was determined that for Minnewaska Area Schools to keep the program running, they would need community support. Without this support, the childcare program faces potential closure by June 30, 2025.
Minnewaska Area Schools is seeking $100,000 in annual community pledges by March 30, 2025.
How You Can Help
Local businesses, organizations, and individuals are invited to partner with Minnewaska Area Schools to secure the future of childcare in Glenwood and surrounding areas. Pledges will offset operational costs, ensuring the program’s viability without straining the school district’s budget. By contributing, you’ll: Support working families in the community; Foster economic stability and family-friendly growth; and Ensure access to reliable childcare for years to come.
Join the Partnership
Partners will sign a formal Partnership Agreement with Minnewaska Area Schools, outlining financial commitments, operational expectations, and ensuring transparency in how funds are used.
“This partnership is about more than just providing childcare—it’s about creating a community where young families can thrive,” said Superintendent Rankin of Minnewaska Area Schools. “Together, we can meet this need and secure the future of our community.
How to Pledge Support
Organizations and individuals interested in supporting this essential community service should contact Minnewaska Areas Schools District Office at 320-239-4800 ext.1470 to discuss partnership opportunities.
