Home Away From Home taking paid students

Oct. 30—Long-time Head Start partner Home Away From Home is now offering paid spots for children ages 13 months to 5 years old.

"We're trying to reach the middle-income and over-income groups and tell them we're available for daycare," said Connie Lawson, director of the early childhood education center located within the Crossville Housing Authority's Pinewood and Obed developments.

Home Away From Home had always followed Head Start's rules for enrollment and family income limits, though the center operates year-round and with extended hours of 6 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

"We try to stay to 5:30 p.m. for the working families," Lawson said. "Most people don't get off work until 5 p.m."

Home Away From Home offers early childhood education with a goal of getting children ready to go to kindergarten when they turn five. Teachers all have a minimum of an associates degree and the Child Development Associate credential, with continuing education.

It has served the community for more than 20 years.

But their funding was cut this year, reducing their Head Start enrollment to 32 placements at each of the two campuses — Obed St. and Pinewood Dr.

"Now, we offer slots that are paid slots," Lawson said.

The 1- and 2-year-old classrooms are currently full. Space is available in the 3 to 5-year-old classrooms.

"But it's looking like we may open up another 2-year-old classroom," Lawson said. "That seems to be the need right now."

Lawson noted the Cumberland County school system offers pre-kindergarten for children 4 years old, which has impacted Head Start enrollment.

Fees are $145 per week per child.

"That includes breakfast, lunch and two snacks every day," Lawson said.

She surveyed other child care providers in the county when setting the weekly rate.

"That was right in the middle," she said.

Families can apply for vouchers from the Smart Steps program if their income is below the 8th percentile of the state median income — $4,344 for a family of two. Families must meet other criteria, including working or attending school for 30 or more hours each week.

Visit tn.gov Children and Families — Child Care Services to learn how to apply.

Families interested in learning more about Home Away From Home or placing their child on a waiting list for an opening may call 931-787-1012 or 931-484-3238.

Heather Mullinix is editor of the Crossville Chronicle. She covers schools and education in Cumberland County. She may be reached at hmullinix@crossville-chronicle.com.