In order to address childcare needs in northeastern Chautauqua County, Pine Valley Central School is pleased to partner with Little Love Bugs Daycare Center. Little Love Bugs is a licensed childcare provider based in Gowanda and will begin providing in-school infant and toddler care with toddler services set to start on November 28th at the district's elementary school. The infant room is set to open once it is fully staffed with qualified people.
“We are so pleased to be working with Little Love Bugs to provide our district families and staff with access to high-quality childcare,” said District Superintendent Bryna Moritz. "Our goal is to make sure we are meeting the needs of our students and families throughout our community. This collaboration was the result of a needs assessment survey, and we will continue to be responsive whenever possible to our community's and families' ever-changing needs."
The center's educational services are provided by a lead infant teacher and two assistant teachers. Daycare staff are CPR and first aid certified and provide daily updates through the Brightwheel mobile app.
"Having our youngest learners attend a high-quality daycare right on our campus allows Pine Valley Central School District to support their learning and growth," said Carrie Davenport, Director of Special Education and Curriculum for the district. "We are collaborating with Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties to provide Early Intervention and Committee on Preschool Special Education services onsite for students who qualify. This is an amazing opportunity to ensure students get the support they need while easing the burden that coordinating these services often places on families."
Like many communities across Western New York, Pine Valley is considered a childcare desert. According to census data compiled by the New York Office of Children and Family Services, there is only one slot available for every five children under the age of five in Chautauqua County.
"We are excited that we are able to provide a safe and loving learning environment for young children in this community," said Heather Mohawk, Program Director of Little Love Bugs. "Our staff is eager to start, and we're looking forward to having a great year. We want to thank Pine Valley for giving us this amazing opportunity, and we hope to be able to serve this community for many years to come."
Children ages six weeks to 36 months are eligible to attend the center. Parents or guardians wanting to be added to a waiting list can call the elementary school directly at (716) 988-3291. They can also contact Little Love Bugs at (716) 241-8797.
