SUNY Westchester Community College has been awarded $186,375 through the State University of New York’s Child Care Expansion Initiative, funding that will expand access to childcare for student parents and help more learners balance their academic goals with family responsibilities.
The funding will support modifications at the college’s Virginia Marx Children’s Center, including the conversion of an existing preschool classroom into a new infant classroom serving children ages 6 weeks to 18 months. The project will increase the number of infant care slots available to student parents, one of the most pressing childcare needs for those pursuing a college education.
“Access to reliable, high-quality childcare can make the difference between starting college and completing it,” said Dr. Belinda Miles, president of SUNY Westchester Community College. “This investment will help ensure that student parents—especially those with infants—have the support they need to stay enrolled and succeed.”
The initiative supports the goals of SUNY Reconnect, a statewide effort to expand educational opportunities for adult learners and working families.
Grant funds will be used for classroom upgrades, furnishings, and staffing, including teacher assistants and a student parent navigator who will help student parents connect with childcare and other campus resources.
College officials said the project reflects changing community needs. As local school districts expand Universal Pre-K programs, demand for preschool slots at the Virginia Marx Children’s Center has declined, while demand for infant care has increased. The conversion will allow the college to better align its childcare capacity with the needs of student parents.
“We are deeply grateful for this investment, which will allow us to expand access to high-quality infant care for the families we serve,” said Kalsi Johnson, director of the Virginia Marx Children’s Center. “For student parents, having a safe, nurturing place for their youngest children makes it possible to focus on their studies and continue working toward their educational goals. This funding will help us support more families at a critical stage in their children’s development. “The infant classroom is expected to open after renovations and staffing are completed.
Student parents interested in learning more about childcare services at SUNY Westchester Community College can visit http://www.sunywcc.edu/vmcc for additional information.
