The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center began to slowly reopen in June after being temporarily closed for over two months due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Its Jerome and Phyllis Charney Early Childhood Development Program (ECDP) was second out of the gate to reopen on June 8 after the JCC’s Senior Kosher Lunch curbside pickup began on June 1.
ECDP staff welcomed the children back with virtual open arms, hugs and real beaming smiles behind their masks and cloth face coverings.
Comprehensive health and safety protocols were put into place and activities were modified to create more social distance among the children. Within a day or two of reopening the children became pros at getting their temperatures taken each morning.
Although the number of returning children was about a quarter of the enrollment at the time the JCC temporarily closed in March, parents bringing their children back were grateful for the childcare.
“We thought long and hard about sending our son back to the Early Childhood Development Program at the JCC. We recognized that changes needed to be made in order for us to feel comfortable resuming ‘normal’ day-to-day activities—and we feel confident that the JCC has implemented those changes,” said ECDP parents Dr. David and Sandra Mandell. “We also acknowledged that there may be anxiety as we transitioned. Prior to the first ‘new’ drop off, we discussed with our son what to expect and although he said he was nervous, it took no time at all to become adjusted to the new protocols. Ultimately, we were faced with a choice—to continue to self-isolate or to begin to re-enter society. We have always trusted the JCC to take care of our children prior to the pandemic, and we feel that with the new protocols in place, they would continue taking excellent care of our children.”
In what seemed like a very short time after reopening, ECDP held their preschool graduation ceremony split over two days on June 29 and 30. Each day about 12 children donned their graduation caps and tassels to receive their “diplomas” during a socially distanced outdoor ceremony in the JCC parking lot. Everything went smoothly and parents appreciated this year’s modified event to celebrate their graduates.
Overall, the JCC’s early childhood reopening was a success and a great milestone to build upon for when they welcome children back in the fall.