I want to give a big cheer to the Black River Cooperative Preschool this 2007-08 year. This was my third child to attend this school, but this year the school district was running a free universal pre-K class, and our longtime dedicated teacher could not stay with the decreased enrollment and high fuel costs, etc. The volunteer parent board members were completely thrown into turmoil, and our parents feared the school would have to disband.
The determined board, led by Kristen Decker, was given lemons, but talked about making lemonade. They hired a terrific new teacher, Kate Gukeisen. Kate's child had been a former student at BRCP. She is a certified teacher and brought the perfect combination of patience, caring and enthusiasm. So many great parents chipped in to help with class programs, wonderful field trips, fundraisers and everything they could. We just had an awesome end of year picnic and graduation.
Without having to raise our small tuition rates, the board and teacher worked together with parents to give our children new friends, fun-filled activities and a love for learning. My son is excited about kindergarten this September, and it would have been a tough transition for him without this experience.
It is tempting for parents to enroll their kids in a free program, with free transportation, but I urge them to look at the big picture and seek out a preschool with a shorter day, a small class size and heavy parent participation. You and your child deserve to get the most out of your precious time together.
Too much in our culture tries to push youth to a fast lane and put money at the top of our priority list. Take the time to support and be thankful for people in our community who volunteer as teachers, coaches, PTO members, Scout leaders and church youth leaders.
This year my husband and I have helped these organizations and have had our children helped by others. We've met some great people, and we are truly grateful because that's what family and community are all about.
Betsy Hennessey
Black River
