The 2007-2008 school year was a great success, both educationally and financially, as the school, again, received overwhelmingly positive comments in the annual parents' survey.     Financially, the school is doing well and has contributed over $85,000 to the church in the past five years, and, additionally contributed $14,000 to purchase playground equipment.  It should be noted that the incremental cost to the church to run this program is less than $7,000 per year. 

The 2008-2009 school year is off to a good start, and enrollment is up to 60 students participating in the program (59 students in 2007-2008; 34 students in 2006-2007).  Registration for 2009-2010 is already at 52 students.  Along with the traditional Three- and Four-year-old programs, Kiddie Campus continues to offer the Extended-Day and Pre-K programs, which have proven to be very successful and contribute significantly to the school's success.

The Extended-Day program, which runs for two additional hours, allows children to have lunch with classmates and further their learning experience through directed activities.  We offer a three-day extended-day program for the four-year-olds and Pre-K students, and have now added an extended-day program for the three-year-olds.  Kiddie Campus is one of the only pre-schools in the area, and the only pre-school in Monroe, that offers a true extended-day program with organized learning activities.

The Pre-K program is doing very well, building a solid reputation, and currently has 13 students (full enrollment).  The environment is perfect for those who really need a little extra time, patience and attention.  And, given the state's plan to change the public schools' Kindergarten-entry cutoff date from December 31st to September 30th, there is a real forecasted need in the community for Pre-K programs.

Currently, the school's staff comprises a teaching director, Deborah Finney, teachers Tracy Nalaboff and Lisa Thigpen, and four Assistants.  The staff is talented, motivated and works well together.  All feedback has been extremely positive and complimentary with respect to our teachers and programs.  The school is bright, cheerful and provides a warm and stimulating first-school experience.  The program continues to be a positive reflection on our church.

It should also be noted that Kiddie Campus has donated over 200 Christmas gifts, over the last four years to the Umbrella Foundation, an organization that supports battered women.  The school has also provided Thanksgiving meals to more than eight families.

Bill Schmalkuche
Chairman, Kiddie Campus Council