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Guests celebrate the blessing and re-opening of the preschool

On Wednesday, February 25, 2015, Kauaʻi Community College held a blessing to commemorate the re-opening of the Child Development Center. Kahu Nani Hill performed the blessing. Closed for renovations since spring 2013, the facility has a new coat of paint, new windows that circulate fresh trade wind breezes throughout the classroom and colorful new tables and chairs for preschoolers.

Hawaiʻi’s U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono and U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard sent signed proclamations honoring the event. Okinawa Christian University and Junior College students, who are majoring in early childhood education and visiting Kauaʻi Community College, were invited to participate in the festivities with faculty, staff, students and members of the Kauaʻi community.

Kahu Nani Hill and Program Director Dana Shelit bless the preschool grounds
Inside the newly renovated Children Development Center

The Child Development Center is designed to serve as a model preschool environment where college students gain quality hands-on experience connecting early childhood development theory with skills learned in class to the real-world of a preschool program. It is an integral part of the Early Childhood Education academic program which prepares students for careers as teachers and other professions working with young children and families.

“There is a welcoming feeling here that nurtures a sense of belonging, being, and becoming for children, students and families,” noted Dana Shelit, early childhood education program coordinator. “The environment is thoughtfully designed to support young children’s unique ways of learning, interests, and imagination. The play-based focus is designed to encourage and inspire a sense of wonder and foster a love for learning.”

“We wanted to open as soon as we could to fulfill the learning needs of the Early Childhood Education Program students,” said Helen Cox, Kauaʻi CC chancellor.

For the full story, read the Kauaʻi CC article.

—By Camilla Matsumoto

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