Tri County Area Schools is proud to announce that the district has been awarded a $50,000 federal appropriations grant secured through the office of Gary Peters to support the continued expansion of early childhood learning opportunities at the MacNaughton Learning Center.
The funding will strengthen and enhance preschool programming as part of the district's ongoing commitment to providing strong educational foundations for its youngest learners. This investment will help Tri County continue creating a welcoming early childhood environment where children and families can begin their educational journey with access to high quality learning experiences, caring educators, and meaningful support services.
The MacNaughton Learning Center serves as the district's hub for early childhood education. Programs located within the center include the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) preschool and additional early learning opportunities designed to meet the diverse needs of families across the Tri County community. The center also partners with 8CAP Head Start, the Montcalm Area ISD Birth to Five Playgroup, and Natural Wonders Childcare Center to expand access to high quality early childhood programming and family support services.
Beginning this fall, Tri County Area Schools will further expand those opportunities through a new partnership with Natural Wonders Childcare Center to provide wrap around childcare services for preschool students attending programming at the MacNaughton Learning Center. Families whose children are enrolled in preschool at MacNaughton will have access to convenient before school and after school childcare located right at the MacNaughton Learning Center. This added service will provide greater flexibility for working families while creating a seamless transition between childcare and preschool, all within one familiar, safe, and nurturing environment.
Superintendent Ryan Biller said investments in early childhood education continue to be among the most important investments a school district can make.
"High quality early learning experiences set the stage for lifelong success," said Biller. "We are grateful to Senator Peters and his team for recognizing the importance of expanding preschool opportunities in rural communities like ours. This funding allows us to continue investing in our youngest Vikings while creating additional supports for families. By combining outstanding preschool programming with wrap-around childcare services, we're making it easier for families to access the high quality educational experiences their children deserve."
Tri County Area Schools would also like to recognize the efforts of the district's leadership team, including Director of Business and Finance, Mr. Corey Bordo, for his work in identifying and securing this funding opportunity on behalf of the district.
As the district continues to invest in its youngest learners, the MacNaughton Learning Center remains a cornerstone of Tri County Area Schools' mission to educate, encourage, and empower every student from the very beginning of their educational journey.
Families interested in learning more about preschool opportunities, wrap-around childcare services, or enrolling their child at the MacNaughton Learning Center are encouraged to visit the MacNaughton Learning Center webpage HERE. If you have questions, would like to schedule a visit, or are interested in learning more about the programs available for your child, please contact Principal Amy Gould at 231-937-4391.
We look forward to welcoming your family and helping your child begin their educational journey at Tri County Area Schools.