The Week of the Young Child Is Recognized in Dalton

The week of April 14-20 is nationally recognized as the Week of the Young Child (WOYC) and the month of April was recently declared in Georgia by Governor Nathan Deal as the Month of the Young Child (MOYC).  The purpose of the Week of the Young Child is to focus the public’s attention on the needs of young children and their families and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs.  The Readers to Leaders Workforce Development Team worked together to commemorate the Week of the Young Child in Dalton-Whitfield.

 

The week began with Pre-K registration at the Mack Gaston Community Center on April 15-16.  Community members were invited to attend and sign their children up for Pre-K while the children enjoyed reading circles and crafts.  The parents received a resource packet in both English and Spanish which included information to help their child’s learning growth.  They also received a summer activity packet that included activities for them to do to help their children learn Pre-K skills.  After registration each child then received a free book.

 

The week concluded with a celebratory event at Rock Bridge Community Church on April 21.  Early childhood educators from throughout the county were invited to attend and receive a certificate of appreciation for their hard work.  Special guests Mayor David Pennington, Commissioner Mike Babb, Dalton Public Schools Superintendent Jim Hawkins, Whitfield County Schools Superintendent Judy Gilreath, and Commissioner of Bright from the Start Bobby Cagle attended and spoke at the event on Sunday afternoon. 

 

Commissioner Mike Babb speaking at the ceremony.

Early childhood educators along with Commissioner Bobby Cagle and local leaders pose for a picture.

Also, the newly hired Archway Education Professional, Katy Green, was introduced during the ceremony.  Special performances were given by students from Whitfield County Pre-K and Dalton Public Schools.  The event was concluded with a reception of refreshments and cupcakes baked by students in WCS and DPS culinary arts programs.  There were also booths set up with information about Readers to Leaders, the Northwest Georgia Regional Library, Jag the Blue Ridge School Reading Buddy  and Big Red Reads which gave out free books to each child. 

Archway Partnership Executive Committee member Dixie Kinard (Right) introduces the new Archway Education Professional Katy Green (Left) to the community.

 

Whitfield County Pre-K students dancing at the ceremony.

Children choosing their free book provided by Big Red Reads.

The weeklong celebration was a huge success! Big thanks to everyone who made it possible!  For more pictures during the Week of the Young Child in Dalton-Whitfield please visit our Facebook Page at http://bit.ly/DWArchwayPartnership .