Director's Corner Continued...

COI Names New Child Care  Council Director

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their peers as "scholarship recipients" and they do not want their peers to know that they have "no market in their neighborhoods to sell the fund raising candy, etc." Where are these kids after 3 pm? They are left unsupervised while their parents are at work and often fall victim to the impetuous temptations facing youth.  Many become involved with the legal system, some become pregnant.  Much of this could have been avoided if there were after school opportunities that did not have additional costs related to them. Part of our partnership with schools has been the joint application for "advantage" after school grants to provide all parents and children with options after 3 pm.

There is growing awareness by government, service providers, school districts and families that our schools present a logical gathering point for the community.  Each community has within its boundaries large taxpayer financed buildings that are heated and maintained with tax dollars and could be better utilized in the evenings and on weekends to serve the larger community.  Together we can pool our resources and provide support to working families and opportunities for children that will maximize their personal success and develop strong career options and a better future.  The children of today are our country's most important natural resource.  If we are to be globally competitive, if we are to have a local workforce that meets the demands of economic growth and prosperity, we must revisit our approach to education and youth opportunities.

Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc. is pleased to announce that Susan Sellers has been hired as the new Child Care Council Director.  Susan holds a Masters in Educational Administration, a Masters of Science in Learning and Behavioral disorders; and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Special Education, and Elementary Education.

Along with her educational expertise, Susan also brings 156 years of experience in a management capacity that involved numerous stakeholders, quality assurance measurement and program outcomes.  She also brings a wealth of experience with community coalitions, networking and strong leadership skills.

As Child Care Council Director, Susan said, " I am happy to be a part of an organization that plays an integral role in helping improve the quality of life for members of our community." 

Susan currently lives in Fredonia with her husband, Ron, and their dog, Buffy.

Susan Sellers may be reached in the Dunkirk area at Connections North, 366-8176, and in the Jamestown area at the West Gate Office building, 664-4999.