New Child Care Facility to Transform Early Education in Bend - Here's How!
In a significant move for early childhood education, Sprouts Montessori of Bend has been awarded a substantial grant of $719,200 to establish a new licensed child care facility named The Orchard Infant Nest. This exciting initiative aims to support families with infants and toddlers, providing essential services in the growing community of Bend, Oregon.
Funded by State Investments
The grant is made possible through the Child Care Infrastructure Fund, which Business Oregon administers, utilizing lottery-backed bonds authorized by the Oregon Legislature in 2023. This fund is part of a broader $50 million statewide investment in child care facilities, aimed at enhancing access to quality early education.
Expanding Child Care Options
The Orchard Infant Nest, located at 502 NE Revere Ave, will be designed to serve 24 infants and toddlers aged 6 weeks to 24 months. This development not only represents a significant capacity increase for child care options in the area but also aims to provide a nurturing environment, including the installation of a fenced infant play area and minor renovations to the existing building.
Healthy Nutrition and Educational Opportunities
Sharon Richardson, the owner of Montessori of Bend, expressed her gratitude for the support from the state, emphasizing the importance of expanding the school's offerings. The facility promises a robust nutritional program, set to provide three meals and two snacks daily, thus prioritizing the well-being of the children. Moreover, it will operate as a Spanish immersion program, offering families a unique educational environment and enhancing cultural exposure for young children.
Flexible Scheduling to Meet Family Needs
To accommodate different family schedules, The Orchard Infant Nest will operate from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., providing both part-time and full-time child care options. This flexible structure aims to support parents in balancing their work and family commitments. Scheduled to open later this spring, the facility will undoubtedly become a valuable resource for families seeking quality child care in Central Oregon.
For more information and details on rates, families are invited to visit the Montessori website or contact the center directly. As Bend continues to grow, initiatives like these signify a proactive approach to nurturing the future generation.
