The Maries Co. R 2 School Board approved the construction of a new Early Childhood Development Center at their regular meeting on March 25, 2025. The Board of Education believes that there is a significant need in our community for quality preschool options.
In January, Belle Elementary began offering a full day free preschool opportunity for students who were 4 and would attend Kindergarten in the 2025-2026 school year which was funded by a Department of Elementary and
Secondary Education grant. “Belle Elementary has offered a morning and afternoon free 1/2 day preschool class for many years and it has had full enrollment for over 10 years,” said Superintendent Lenice Basham. “The community has really supported the new full day program as well. We knew there was a need when the all day preschool program was full within 24 hours of offering the program.”
"We know that preschool is important for the impact it has on a child's development. It lays the foundation for future academic success", said Basham. "Quality preschool programs promote learning readiness and prepare our youngest learners for Kindergarten and the rest of their education. Our Board of Education believes this investment will have a positive impact on our whole community."
School Board President Kenda Sanders shared, “The school district is thrilled to introduce a new facility dedicated to early childhood development. With the support of our amazing staff and community, we are eager to take this next step. Our commitment to supporting families in the district, from birth through high school graduation and beyond, remains a top priority.”
The proposed center will be built on the district’s property along Mitchem Road off of Hwy 28. The center will house all of the preschool programs (both 1/2 day and full day), the Early Childhood Special Education classroom, the Parents As Teachers office and a daycare for children under the age of 3 of staff members of Maries Co. R 2. The Board of Education believes this will be a retention tool in maintaining quality teachers to teach within our district.
“The construction of the new Early Childhood Development Center for the Maries R-2 School District is a monumental step forward for our community. This facility will serve as a nurturing garden of learning for our youngest community members, laying the foundation for their future success. We deeply appreciate the dedication and hard work of our administrators and staff in making this project a reality,” stated Board of Education member Paul Shanks.
The Board of Education will approve a construction manager at their next board meeting in April to begin the process.