January Message from Deb Green
In Pursuit of Great Spaces
Over our recent winter break, we had a chance to do some behind-the-scenes projects. Floors were waxed, carpets were cleaned, and supply closets were re-organized. Most significantly, we renovated the Peanuts classroom (in the Spruce Building). We replaced very-aged tile and carpet with engineered wood plank floor material, added new cabinets and countertops, and gave the walls a fresh coat of paint.
Renovation projects like this are not only an opportunity for facility updates, but a chance for program improvements. When the construction crew left, rather than just unpack all the boxes, we reflected upon the use of space.
Inspired by the educators following the Reggio-Emilia approach, we have fully embarked on a mission to create classroom environments where young children feel welcome, child-centered activities happen easily, and those who use the space--both teachers and children--have ownership.
We have replaced plastic with wood and more sustainable materials, added textures and natural materials, incorporated home-like elements and soft objects such as wall hangings, area rugs, and soft pillows. As these changes have happened, we have all noted the difference in how children use the classrooms.
Maintaining older facilities while striving for quality can be challenging. While salaries and benefits take up the largest percentage of our annual budget by far, the need to allocate dollars to maintain and improve our facility for upcoming projects--those we have planned for and others that unexpectedly arise--is undeniable.
Several years ago, PIC’s Board consulted an outside contractor to carefully examine and review our facility. We created a Systems Replacement Plan (SRP) with a 15-year project timeline that is reviewed each year for current relevancy. Each year, support for our annual appeal helps replenish this SRP fund. This year, we were also very fortunate when the retirement of our longtime Finance Director Judy Borie prompted over $10,000 in individual gifts to be used for the SRP.
On the return from winter break, it was great fun to watch as the young Peanuts entered their classroom and saw all of the changes in their room. We are grateful to members of the PIC community whose support made it all possible. As I stood by with teachers and families, it was clear that nurturing the growth and development of young children at PIC is worth continual investment.