LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A creative solution and federal money is being used to help address both a teacher shortage and the cost of childcare.
The Prosser Career Education Center has a new solution to both problems. New Albany Floyd County Schools received more than $200,000 last year from an $18 million state grant. It plans to use that money to help train future educators and provide childcare under one roof.
"A lot of districts are seeing deficits of having teachers in the classroom," said Natalie Johnson, an early childhood education instructor at Prosser.Â
In Indiana, more early childhood educators are leaving the profession than joining it. According to Brighter Futures Indiana, the turnover rate for teachers is more than double the growth rate.
Many families can't afford childcare. Preschool costs Hoosier families between $815 and $1,106 a month, according to the website CostOfChildcare.org.Â
At Prosser, high school students in the center's early childhood education program will get hands-on experience, and employees of the New Albany Floyd County Schools will get discounted childcare.
"They'll be able to create activities for those kids and be able to see them in real life implemented," said Johnson.
Prosser principal Nancy Campbell wishes this was an option, when her kids were young.
"When we think about what our teachers do day in and day out, we need to give them the benefits that entice them to not only want to come into education, but to stay in education," Campbell said.
Construction is wrapping up on the new childcare facility on Prosser's campus. It has two classrooms, a playground and will hold about 40 students. High schoolers at Prosser will teach the 3 and 4 year old's alongside with certified educators.
"You have to get the hands on to be a teacher, you have to get the experience," said senior Kenzie Baker.
Seniors will graduate certified to teach pre-school in many districts, which could fill a much needed gap for the state.
"This program will benefit all of southern Indiana providing high quality educators coming right out from high school," Johnson said.
The program is scheduled to be up and running next school year.Â
Related stories:
- Southern Indiana school district expected to use grant money to help their employees with child care
- These cities raised taxes — for child care. Parents say the free day care 'changed my life'
- 'We don't know yet' | Child care operators could be impacted by JCPS transportation plan
Copyright 2024 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.
