Greater Scranton YMCA Receives Grant from Local Foundation Funding will support the inclusion of STEM equipment and supplies in to the YMCA’s Early Childhood Education Department. In 2023, the Greater Scranton YMCA was awarded a $16,244 grant from AllOne Charities. Grant funding will support the inclusion of STEM equipment and educational materials in the YMCA’s Early Childhood Education Department. The addition of STEM equipment and activities into the Greater Scranton YMCA’s Early Childhood Education curriculum will allow staff to make a greater educational impact on the growing number of children we serve. Through exposing young children to STEM activities and initiatives early in life, the groundwork will begin being laid, helping children enter kindergarten with a broader knowledge base and the tools and resources needed for success. “We are so grateful to AllOne Charities for this generous grant award,” said Trish Fisher, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “Enrollment in early learning programs continues to grow. We are so proud to provide the children in our care with access to daily opportunities to engage in STEM activities, as exposure to STEM initiatives is a critical component to academic success.” For more information about the Greater Scranton YMCA’s Early Childhood Education Department, contact Tressa Parker, Education Director, at tparker@gsymca.org or visit the YMCA online at www.greaterscrantonymca.org.
Starry Knights Learning Center Earns ECE Champion Award Starry Knights Learning Center received the Equity in Early Childhood Education (ECE) Champion Award, honorable mention level. The Department of Human Services Acting Secretary Meg Snead announced the Equity in Early Childhood Education (ECE) Champion Award recipients to programs across the commonwealth. More than 50 ECE providers were awarded based on their ability to enhance equitable practices within their program as part of providing quality services for children and families. “Early Childhood Education professionals, providers and programs have been such an inspiration during the pandemic, and it should come as no surprise they are also leading equity and inclusion efforts as well,” said Acting Secretary Snead. “Month of the Young Child is focused on bringing attention to the needs of young children and their families and to recognize ECE programs and services that meet those needs – including equity and inclusion.” “It has been a rough two years for ECE programs, and I am so proud to highlight programs that are going above and beyond during this time,” said Deputy Secretary of the Office of Child Development and Early Learning, Tracey Campanini. “The work around equity and inclusion is so important and we really wanted to make sure that work was recognized and celebrated.”
