MATURA Head Start stops Mount Ayr operations
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A cascading series of events led to families being abruptly notified that MATURA Head Start would no longer be providing preschool at the Family Resource Center (FRC) in Mount Ayr as of Thursday, March 27. The following notice from the MATURA Head Start Leadership Team was sent to parents prior to ending their program in Mount Ayr.
“Due to multiple circumstances that will immediately affect our program operations we will no longer be able to serve students within our Mount Ayr Head Start classroom for the remainder of the school year, effective at the end of this week,” the notice stated.
“I am compelled to convey my deep disappointment and concern regarding the abrupt termination of childcare services, with parents receiving an unacceptably short notice period of one day,” Rachael Rumple shared in a facebook post. “The previous semester’s sudden termination of teachers without notice was alarming, and this recent decision is equally, if not more, distressing. What needs to be done to have quality child care in our community” Rumple asked rhetorically.
The Head Start program
Head Start is a federally funded early learning program that serves children and families in every state across the country. Instituted by Congress passing the Head Start Act in 1981, it was later reauthorized in December 2007.
While Head Start’s role in each state differs greatly based on local systems and models, the program is designed to help children ages 3 to 5 years prepare for school.
MATURA Action Corporation in Creston manages the Head Start program for the local area with preschool classrooms in Bedford, Corning, Creston, Winterset and previously, Mount Ayr.
“Early Childhood Education programs across the state and country, including Head Start programs, are experiencing exceptional challenges which have, thankfully, captured the public’s attention,” states Danna Buls, Executive Director at MATURA Action Corporation.
Ringgold County Supervisor Steve Knapp, has already reached out to MATURA to inquire about the situation and offer suggestions to potentially continue a partnership in Ringgold County.
“MATURA will continue to monitor the needs for Head Start services by Ringgold County children and families as future program years are planned,” said Buls.
The Family Resource Center, located on the corner of Lincoln and Jefferson Street to the south of Mount Ayr Elementary School, offers childcare services including infant care, childcare for children up to 36 months, and preschool.
Family Resource Center
The Family Resource Center (FRC) has partnered with MATURA Head Start to offer the program locally the last two years. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping costs affordable for families, the FRC attempted to share operational costs with MATURA Head Start, which resulted in a less than desirable outcome.
A notice on the FRC Facebook page the day after MATURA’s announcement stated:
“It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the sudden closure of the Ringgold County Head Start classroom.”
The FRC is working with affected families to continue caring for their children. They are also welcoming financial donations to assist impacted children. Anyone interested in sponsoring a 3+ preschooler, can contact the FRC.
“Please know that we are committed to supporting the children and families affected by this closure. Our center continues to offer 3+ preschool, and we will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition for those impacted. If you have not yet been contacted by Rachel, the FRC Director, regarding your child’s preschool and childcare needs, please reach out to her directly at 641-464-3385. Providing a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for children to learn and thrive remains our top priority,” stated the FRC notice.
Recent events leading up to the closure were also addressed in the FRC notice.
“For the past two years, the FRC has partnered with MATURA Head Start, providing classroom space within our childcare center for three-year-old preschool. Over that time, discussions were held between the FRC Board and Head Start administration to fairly share operating costs, such as utilities, supplies, and cleaning. Despite efforts to reach an agreement, a resolution was not met.”
Unable to reach a mutual agreement, the FRC Board then determined that operating costs should be divided equally among all six classrooms in the building.
“A bill was submitted to MATURA Head Start, with a request for payment by mid-March. Unfortunately, due to a communication breakdown, the FRC Center Director received a letter from Head Start on Tuesday, March 25th stating they would be closing their classroom the following Friday and asking FRC to notify parents,” the FRC notice stated.
“This was never the FRC Board or staff’s intention, and we are deeply saddened by this outcome. Unfortunately, this situation on top of an insurmountable number of other issues have resulted in an unsuccessful collaboration,” the FRC notice continued.
“Above all, our greatest concern has been the well-being of the children and families affected. Rachel and her team have been working tirelessly to ensure that every child continues to receive quality early education. We are prepared to welcome these children into the FRC’s 3+ preschool classroom to provide them with the secure, nurturing learning environment they deserve,” concluded the Family Resource Center Staff and Board.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to Family Resource Center at 641-464-3385.
