Parents of children who attended the Regina Early Learning Centre (ELC) are concerned about the loss of the preschool program. The program provided quality early education for about 50 children, along with wraparound supports for their families. Courtney Kydd, a parent of five, says all of her children attended the program. “It has benefitted my whole family. I have five children and they have all gone through the preschool program,” she said. The program was discontinued for September after 49 years of operation. The centre has struggled financially in the past. However, recent funding issues have been caused by the withdrawal of support from an anonymous private donor. “This situation arose following the withdrawal of support from an anonymous private donor who had provided funding across Saskatchewan,” the centre said on its website. In a statement from last June announcing the conversion of the centre to a daycare, the board of directors said; “The Regina Early Learning Centre is committed to providing high quality early learning experiences while ensuring the long term sustainability of our organization so that we can continue serving children and families for years to come.” The centre is converting to a $10-a-day daycare while maintaining family support programs. That is more than the $40-a-year charged previously. Many parents say the change will make the program less affordable. “It’s huge. Having five kids, and having it just $40 for an entire year which includes transportation, that’s why we were able to attend,” said parent Morgan Dodge. “It was stressful because my kids found security being here at the school. I found stability being here and having them here and doing all the programs,” said parent Rochelle Sugar. Parents will meet Friday night to attempt to remove the board that made the decision. A former executive director of the centre believes closure of the preschool would be a major loss. “The more that we can offer children, high quality experiences and support parents in their incredibly important role as their child’s first teacher, the better prepared those children are for success in life,” said Mary Ann McGrath, former executive director of the Regina Early Learning Centre. The parent group believes a renewed attempt should be made at resolving the preschool’s funding problems. It believes a new board of directors would bring a fresh approach.
