school program for children with and without disabilities in
kindergarten and first grade starting February 7, 2011. The five-star
Easter Seals UCP Irwin and Carol Belk Children's Center will
accommodate the new after school program, which offers children
dedicated teachers to assist with homework, and educational and fun
activities from 2:15 – 5:30 p.m. Monday – Friday.
"While there are numerous after school programs for children without
special needs, there is a shortage of programs for children with
special needs," said Courtney DeTemple, Easter Seals UCP program
manager for Mecklenburg County Early Childhood and Family Services.
"We found that many parents have to adjust their work schedules or
hire someone to help take care of their child once they start
elementary school. We already have the foundation of our five-star
Children's Center and our space offered the opportunity to fill this
needed void."
The Easter Seals UCP Children's Center is an inclusive preschool
serving children ages six weeks through Pre-K. The center supports
children with and without disabilities – 50 percent of the center's
enrollment is made up of children without disabilities – and provides
age-appropriate educational activities as well as specialized services
including speech, occupational and physical therapies to children who
need them. The new after school program will serve children in
kindergarten and first grade.
To learn more about the Easter Seals UCP After School Program, please
contact Courtney DeTemple at (704) 522-9912.
About Easter Seals UCP
Headquartered in Raleigh, NC with programs and services throughout
North Carolina and Virginia, Easter Seals UCP is a lifelong partner to
families managing disabilities and mental health challenges. The
nonprofit serves more than 20,000 individuals and their families
annually through an array of services. Easter Seals UCP enhances the
quality of life for individuals and maximizes their potential for
engaging in their communities. For more information on Easter Seals
UCP North Carolina & Virginia, visit www.eastersealsucp.com.
