United Way childhood program prepares kids for kindergarten
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Campbell Park Network for Early Learning is strengthening United Way’s Quality Childhood Initiative. A partnership with a childcare provider in St. Petersburg means she is able to expand services.
What You Need To Know
- Retmus Academy of Learning opens a second location thanks to the partnership with United Way
- United Way’s Quality Childhood Initiative is helping preschoolers prepare for kindergarten
- The Campbell Park Network for Early Learning focuses on increasing kindergarten readiness of children who live in the Campbell Park area
Cynthia Sumter-Scott is director and owner of Retmus Academy of Learning. Sumter-Scott first started providing daycare at home and opened a facility in St. Petersburg after partnering with United Way. She’s now preparing to open a second location in February.
“Parents are calling every day. ‘When are you going to open?’ I’m trying, I’m trying,” said Sumter-Scott.
She said she recognizes many parents are not only struggling to find childcare, but are also struggling to afford it. On top of that, the expiration of federal relief funds has forced other facilities to fold.
“The cost of living is going up so high, I’m trying to keep my childcare fees down where they can afford it,” said Sumter-Scott.
Providing access is part of United Way’s quality child care initiative — it supports 15 providers. She said preparing children for school is her passion.
“They came in not knowing then all of a sudden — ‘Oh my gosh. They’re done. They done sprung into these big flowers blossoming and learning every day.’”
The expansion is expected to open by the end of February 2024.
The Campbell Park Network for Early Learning focuses on increasing kindergarten readiness of children, ages birth through four, who live in the Campbell Park area.