A key element of the philosophy of the center is to provide resources and models for teen parents that might enable them to receive their high school diploma and move forward with further education in mind. Ravenswood Evangelical Covenant Church supports a parallel program to the child care for the teens; Parenting ProGRESS (Promoting Growth, Responsibility, and Education with Spiritual Support) holds life skills courses and occasional special events. A one-to-one mentor relationship with an experienced and trained volunteer is offered to interested parents, but is not required.
a commitment to supporting teen parents
The high school students are thus encouraged to complete their high school education and also supported in planning for next life steps. At a stressful crossroad, facing a decision affecting their future and that of their child, finding appropriate care for their preschooler is not one of their concerns. Whether they go on to further their education or take a job, they know their children can remain in the quality care and education program at Ravenswood Community Child Care Center.
We are committed to supporting the parenting teens attending high school, or graduates who have continued onto college; their children will receive first priority for enrollment, up to 1/3 of the center's enrollment, if there is a need. The remaining child care slots are available to the general community.
The variety of tuition sources promotes a mixed socio-economic population.
