![Child Care Program]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1597340393/smsdorg/jk4mu6ius9obkb3wiyd0/ChildWeb.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1597340393/smsdorg/jk4mu6ius9obkb3wiyd0/ChildWeb.jpg","width":400}])
The Shawnee Mission School District, in partnership with Johnson County Park and Recreation Department (JCPRD) and the YMCA, are offering staff members with children in Pre-K-sixth grade a unique benefit. This program, approved by the Board of Education as a first-semester pilot plan, will provide a learning support and care program for children of employees enrolled in SMSD during hybrid and remote learning phases.
The goal is to provide quality learning and care options for the children of SMSD employees enrolled in SMSD elementary schools, in a very cost-effective manner.
Students will be able to access school meals through food service. Before- and after- care during these hybrid/remote phases will also be available. JCPRD/YMCA will have activities planned during those times in accordance with childcare licensing and health/safety protocols. Details about the program may be viewed here.
“The provision of care for our Shawnee Mission School District students who are children of our employees is essential to supporting their ability as working parents to focus on their work to serve the children of the Shawnee Mission community while ensuring their children are cared for and supported,” Leigh Anne Neal, chief of early childhood education/sustainability noted.
Staff members with children enrolled in Shawnee Mission received an email this week with a survey to complete by noon on Friday, Aug. 14 to help with planning.
The school district appreciates the commitment and partnership of JCPRD and YMCA to support SMSD employees and students. The program will be evaluated in November/December 2020 to determine needs and how to proceed for second semester. Questions may be sent to askthedistrict@smsd.org.