New Judy Center Opening in Chipman Elementary

SALISBURY, Md – A brand new Judy Center opened in Chipman Elementary School in Wicomico County.

A Judy Center is a Maryland grant-funded support system located within elementary schools. These “early learning hubs” are not child care centers, but instead are places that provide “comprehensive, integrated, full-year services that promote school readiness for children at birth through age six.” The services include play groups, case management with families, goal-setting, family engagement events and more.

Chipman Elementary Principal Meeka McCoy is proud to have this resource running out of her school… she spoke to families about what it means to them. She says, “they are excited about the help and support they will get that will help prepare their students, their children, and our future chipmunks to be a part of our chipman family.”

The new center is lined with flyers detailing a multitude of services designed to help young children and families. Ekricka Trader is the site coordinator for the new Judy Center and she explained some of the resources they provide.

“We make kits for new moms, so if they’re having a baby we’ll give them some things that they can start out with.” She says, “We will have a father’s support program here. It’s for fathers to come into the school, to be that male role model for the kids. They’ll go into different classrooms and assist, and then they’ll greet the kids before they come into school.”

Trader shared how wonderful it is to be able to reach out to families that are in need of help who might not know where to go. Principal McCoy had a similar sentiment, explaining how the Judy Center opens doors for more outreach.

McCoy says, “Because of the support brought to us by the Judy Center we are going to be able to reach so many families…so many children…and to me that is just invaluable.”

This marks the third Judy Center in Wicomico County, those in charge are encouraging families to reach out and get involved.

If you are interested in getting involved with the Judy Center, call Chipman Elementary School and ask to speak with the Judy Center.