15 months ago
A new child development center is about to open its doors to the Houston County community, but it's not just for children. It's designed for students of all ages.
31-year-old Lalietha Merrell didn't start her career by the book. She enrolled in Middle Georgia Tech's early education program after ten years as director of a day care. Merrell said, "Of course I have a heart for kids."
She hopes to help them through her own education and a new opportunity at the college.
In June, college students can apply what they learn in their classroom to much younger students in the Child Development Center's classrooms. They are located in the same building.
Director of the Child Development Center Michelle Cutler-Ervin said the new, $3.3 million center will base its programs on national "best practice" standards, instead of the state minimum.
For example, she said the classroom for three year olds will have one teacher for every nine children. The state's standard is one teacher for every 15 children. Cutler-Ervin said, "By coming here and seeing how best practices are put into play, were hoping they will then take that out into the community, then better the community as well."
Students like Jessica Weatherington will intern under the watch of a certified teaching staff. Weatherington said, "This center, I've never heard of a center like this in middle Georgia, and it's just amazing."
She said she's ready to use techniques that focus on each child's different learning styles, to teach them the same lessons. Weatherington said, "I'm actually looking forward to actually meeting the children."
There's space for nearly 100 children. The Child Development Center is looking to hire at least twelve teachers, too.
The center is open to the community, although the children of college students and staff come first.
The cost will be $125 each week, which the director says is average for the area. It will serve children ages three to twelve and opens June 1st.
