RUMFORD – A new program has been launched in SAD 43 that aims to involve whole families in activities that will help young children be prepared to enter school.

Heading up the program, known as Family Literacy, is Gail Parent, a former second-grade teacher who retired a few years ago from the district.

“This is important for the parents and child to work with the school so children would be more prepared when they came to school,” said Parent, who has been subbing since her retirement.

The half-time position, based at Rumford Elementary School, is funded by a Barbara Bush Family Literacy Grant.

Betty Titcomb, literacy teacher for grades kindergarten through two, wrote the grant for $25,000.

Parent’s job is to reach out to preschool children and their parents and coordinate the services that are available in the area that would enhance school readiness for children, such as Head Start/Early Start and Even Start. She will also put interested parents in contact with adult services in the area such as Region 9 Adult Education and River Valley Literacy Volunteers.

Starting later this month, Parent will launch a monthly morning session at RES, known as the P.A.C.T. Club (Parents and Child Together) that will involve activities for parents and their children.

“This will give parents a chance to work with and enjoy their children,” she said.

Some of the activities will likely include reading recipes and cooking, reading stories together, hands-on projects and games.

The monthly parent/child session will also give adults a chance to socialize with others who have young children.

Parent also hopes that by being involved with their young children in a school environment before their children actually enter school will make them more comfortable interacting with the school once their children have started.

Four families have already shown interest in the monthly sessions. Parent hopes to have between 10 and 15 families involved by the end of the year.

“We’re excited about the program and for people who want to get their diploma (if appropriate) and for those who want their children to be more successful in school,” said Parent.

Any preschool child from the district and their parents are invited to join the group, or to contact Parent for any other service that may be applicable. Her office is housed at Rumford Elementary school where she is available from 8 a.m. until noon from Monday through Thursday or by phoning 364-8155, ext. 250.

eadams@sunjournal.com

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