University Place church remodels building to offer child care this fall

Parents heading back to work don't have many options for child care this fall because of COVID-19 restrictions.

To help families, OURChurch in Pierce County is opening the New School at Chambers Bay, a licensed child care center for children 6 weeks to 6 years old.

“It’s really an opportunity for us to say, ‘Hey, this is a safe place. This is a quality place. We’re going to give you education; we’re going to partner alongside you with health and safety,’” said Executive Pastor Melanie Grassiwood.

Grassiwood knows this year has been tough, which is why OURChurch wants to help parents who’ve been juggling so many responsibilities during the stay-at-home order.

“Without good care for their children, they may not be able to go back to their jobs, so that means pay rent, pay mortgages, support their families. It’s that critical,” said Karen Curtiss, executive director of the New School at Chambers Bay.

In two weeks, they'll open the New School at Chambers Bay, welcoming 105 children.

The idea is so fresh, most of the building is still under construction, but that doesn't mean the idea isn't well thought out.

Curtiss has spent countless hours designing every square foot to make sure classrooms are full of the best learning activities for young children.

Safety is a big priority. Teachers will wear face shields and take temperatures every day.

“Children are washing their hands before they go outside, when they come back in, before every snack, before every meal, after every snack and meal,” said Curtiss.

Grassiwood said her 4-year-old daughter can't wait for school to start. She's thrilled the church can provide this option for families this fall.

"They're going to have great education, and they're going to be safe, and they're going to be loved,. I mean, what's a better feeling than that, right?" said Grassiwood.

School starts Sept. 8.

To sign up, visit the New School at Chambers Bay’s website. Application fees are waived through Aug. 25.

https://www.thenewschoolatchambersbay.us/

Cox Media Group