Collaborative Corner On The Move

B Jeannie Pederson, Pope County Initiative Coordinator

You’ll note in this edition of the Pope County Tribune, the generous sponsorship of Tim Douglass through the Child Care Provider Appreciation page. We are so fortunate to have partners who have joined together to strengthen efforts to increase child care access, recruit and retain providers and each with a shared focus on ensuring that all sectors of Pope County thrive. Thank you to all the providers and directors in various settings who love and care for our children! Please reach out to them with your gratitude each and every day!

Thank you to the Minnewaska Area Schools, WIN Academy and Glacial Hills Elementary students and staff who will be volunteering throughout Pope County on Day of Caring, May 7. All those who have requested their help, thank you for reaching out. Signs of spring are all around us as nature transforms into a beautiful landscape of new life and energy. If you happen to drive or walk by to witness the students in action on Wednesday, you’ll immediately feel the energy of kindness and the spirit of giving to lift up our Pope County community.

The Safe & Welcoming Schools Committee wrapped up their final meeting for the school year. In doing so, they are already looking forward to September, on ways they can positively impact the work beyond the past school year(s). Together, they strive to address issues impacting students, parents, staff and our communities. Some of their many focus areas include: overall school safety, wellness for students/staff, activities that promote kindness and building community through Day of Caring and BeKind activities as a couple examples, trainings or program opportunities for learning and much more. Along with the MAS administration, a social worker, nurse, counselors and school resource officer, members of the Safe & Welcoming Schools Committee currently include representatives of Horizon Public Health, Someplace Safe and the Pope County Family Collaborative.

Best wishes to all for a happy spring as both endings and new beginnings cap off a great school year!