Wareham committee approves a fee-based before-school childcare pilot at elementary school

The Wareham School Committee voted Dec. 18 to approve a fee‑based before‑school childcare pilot at Wareham Elementary, after staff presented survey results showing strong family interest and a staffing plan intended to make the program cost‑neutral.

A presenter who identified herself as a former school principal and planner (Bethany) said 172 families answered a survey and that nearly 67% indicated they need before‑school care. Based on those responses, she proposed a morning program that would operate 6:30–8:30 a.m. on school days with a tiered fee structure (example: $13 for two hours; prorated half‑hour rates also specified). Staffing would include a coordinator/teacher, one paraprofessional per 12 children, and an administrative assistant for bookkeeping.

Bethany said the state’s Early Education and Care (EEC) office advised the district that a fee‑based program can open without EEC voucher approval but that voucher participation would trigger inspections; the district plans to roll into vouchers later. She recommended separating ages in the Innovation Hub and keeping the program drop‑off only.

Committee members asked about required participation to be cost neutral; Bethany said roughly 12 paying students would cover the cost of one paraprofessional plus coordinator. The committee followed its practice of allowing a first‑vote approval for a pilot and voted to approve the program; the tally announced by the chair was 3–0–1 (one abstention). Bethany said she would return with an update in March or April.

The vote authorizes the program to move forward with postings, hiring, and applications; the committee noted additional work will be required for voucher participation and any later inspections mandated by EEC.