KITTERY, Maine — Parents in Kittery are banding together to save Durgin Pines Pre-School, a program that has become a vital part of the community.
Located within a senior living center, Durgin Pines Pre-School offers an innovative, intergenerational learning environment where children interact daily with senior residents. This unique setup helps foster empathy and compassion in young students.
However, the preschool’s future was thrown into uncertainty when administrators announced the school would close on January 3 due to low enrollment. In response, a wave of community support led to an extension of the closure date to March 31, giving advocates time to find a solution.
The school’s intergenerational model is what sets it apart. Children, affectionately known as “grand-friends” to the residents, engage in shared activities that bring the generations together. “They’re so affectionate and loving,” said one senior resident.
Abigail Wheeler, the preschool’s director, expressed her heartbreak over the closure announcement. “I was devastated. This is a place I’ve worked for the last three years and poured my heart and soul into,” she said.
For many parents, including Jennifer Campos, the preschool offers more than just early education. “My son is getting a much more enriching education here, including social skills,” Campos said. She, like many others, does not want to send her child anywhere else.
Durgin Pines Administrator Michelle Belhumeur explained that, despite their best efforts, the school has struggled with enrollment for years. “It’s been a pattern for many years. We just thought we couldn’t turn it around,” Belhumeur said.
In response to the announcement, parents quickly organized a meeting with school administrators. They offered to help boost enrollment with a new marketing campaign that emphasizes the program’s unique benefits for both children and seniors.
“We want to show the community how wonderful this program is. It benefits both the children and the residents,” said Campos.
Their efforts have already begun to pay off. Belhumeur noted a significant increase in inquiries from families interested in enrolling their children.
Despite the tight deadline, Wheeler remains hopeful. “Seeing everybody come together and sharing what a special place this is has created a ripple effect,” she said.
As the community continues its push to raise awareness, there is hope that this one-of-a-kind program will continue to thrive and benefit both children and seniors in Kittery.
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