Ridley OKs child-care provider at elementary schools

RIDLEY TOWNSHIP » The Ridley School District has agreed to allow the Right At School child care providers to rent space in district elementary schools to provide before- and after-school child care, beginning in the upcoming school year. Right At School is an Evanston, Ill.-based company.

“There are not enough child care providers in the community,” said Ridley Superintendent Lee Ann Wentzel. “Child care is a big issue.”

Wentzel said the rent will be “nominal” and the company will meet all legal requirements of the state to provide child care and secure the necessary permits. She said if the program comes to fruition it will open up job opportunities in the community. The superintendent noted Developing Minds child care in the Milmont Park section of the township operates at Grace Park School and will remain there. Right At School will operate year round, including holidays in select schools.

Nicole Homaijani, area manager for Right At School, briefed Eddystone Borough Council at its recent meeting about the program. She school was introduced at the meeting by Eddystone Elementary School Principal Jeff D’Orazio. Homaijani explained how the program works and handed out information about the company.

According to information furnished by Homijani, Right At School operates after-school programs in many school districts across the country, in all types of urban, suburban, and rural school communities. The staff must pass comprehensive fingerprint background checks and educators are experienced post-graduate and current college students. The daily curriculum will include homework help, fun fitness and enrichment.

Costs are based on before school at 7 a.m. and after school until 6 p.m. and the number of days a child is in the program. There is an annual $50 per family registration fee and a 10 percent sibling discount. Other fees may apply. For more information, visit the web site at www.rightatschool.com.