Rick Stiebel/B次元官网网址 Gazette
Board members of Metchosin Preschool believe the benefits of co-op education in a rural setting are well worth considering for parents in other parts of the West Shore.
B次元官网网址淲e want to encourage parents on the West Shore to consider Metchosin Preschool as an option,B次元官网网址 said Kelli Gherasim, the schoolB次元官网网址檚 treasurer and one of nine parents who volunteer on the board. B次元官网网址淭hereB次元官网网址檚 a huge sense of community here.B次元官网网址
Metchosin Preschool has been a staple in the community for 60 years. Its location near the centre of Metchosin makes it a great option for parents, Gherasim said. B次元官网网址淲e have three teachers here who have been together for 10 years,B次元官网网址 she noted. B次元官网网址淭hatB次元官网网址檚 a huge part of our success B次元官网网址 WeB次元官网网址檙e a not-for-profit organization, we provide an affordable preschool experience thatB次元官网网址檚 not about the money. Parents here kick in wherever they can to help out. Our aim is to keep this wonderful tradition alive and healthy.B次元官网网址
While enrolment has been steady, this year has taken a dip to 19 kids, about half the average number during the past few years. Although enrolment for 2018 looks to be back on track, Metchosin Preschool is facing some challenges higher enrolment would help address, Gherasim explained.
The building is 70 years old and in need of some repairs to the roof. There are also some trees that have to be removed from the play area before their roots cause damage to the buildingB次元官网网址檚 structure. B次元官网网址淥ther upgrades such as new flooring are on the horizon,B次元官网网址 she added.
Joanne Beels, the boardB次元官网网址檚 marketing director, hopes a fundraiser the preschool is hosting with Metchosin Fire Rescue will help with some of the costs. B次元官网网址淲e are incredibly grateful to Fire Chief Stephanie Dunlop for allowing us to join their annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa,B次元官网网址 she said.
The event takes place at the Metchosin fire hall this Sunday, Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will be pancakes, sausages, professional photos with Santa, crafts and maple syrup for sale.
B次元官网网址淭hanks to one of our wonderful preschool families, we are selling maple syrup from the Maple to Table Farm in Quebec. And thanks to Out of the Blue creations, we are selling 540 ml. tins for $12.50 each. The tins have a lovely holiday theme and would make a great Christmas gift.B次元官网网址
Another preschool familyB次元官网网址檚 efforts has enabled Metchsoin Preschool to obtain a large recycling bin.
Money raised from collecting clean bottles, cans, cartons, drink pouches and refundable drink containers will go to the preschool.
For more information email presidentmetchosinpreschool@gmail.com or search Metchosin Preschool on Facebook.
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