RecZone Offers Virtual Learning Assistance At Subsidized Rate

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Starting Thursday, RecZone will be offering extended hours for school day options through the end of December. Pricing also has been adjusted thanks to CARES Act funding allowing the program to be subsidized with a 30 percent reduction in weekly costs.

“This global pandemic is testing all facets of our systems and childcare is no exception – without a reliable, safe place for parents and guardians to send children each day, it is going to be a serious emotional and physical toll on families,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “On top of these challenges, there are still many residents who are facing tough financial situations – job loss, overdue bills, rent or mortgage payments and are just trying to get by. As I’ve said before, we’re seeing a domino effect of challenges, and we’re working to provide support wherever possible."

RecZone is designed to help families address childcare needs during the coronavirus pandemic. The program is open to students in kindergarten through fifth grade who will receive support for virtual learning and will enjoy crafts, life-long learning activities, cultural theme days, physical activities, outdoor play and games. The program begins Sept. 8 at select schools throughout Howard County. It will be offered five days a week, excluding school holidays. The program is licensed through the Maryland State Department of Education’s Office of Childcare.

Registration for the program is open to both in-county and out-of-county families. Due to coronavirus restrictions and requirements, space is limited. Each group will hold a maximum of 15 people, including two staff and 13 children. RecZone plans to have two groups at each location, and more groups may become available later. RecZone will cost $219 per week for extended day (7 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and $185 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

Howard County Public School System currently is working with Howard County Recreation and Parks to solidify the following program locations:

• Bellows Spring Elementary School, 8125 Old Stockbridge Road, Ellicott City
• Bollman Bridge Elementary School, 8200 Savage-Guilford Road, Savage
• Bushy Park Elementary School, 14601 Carrs Mill Road, Glenwood
• Clarksville Middle School, 6535 South Trotter Road, Clarksville
• Dayton Oaks Elementary School, 4691 Ten Oaks Road, Dayton
• Deep Run Elementary School, 6925 Old Waterloo Road, Elkridge
• Elkridge Elementary School, 7075 Montgomery Road, Elkridge
• Forest Ridge Elementary School, 9550 Gorman Road, Laurel
• Fulton Elementary School, 11600 Scaggsville Road, Fulton
• Hanover Hills Elementary School, 7030 Banbury Drive, Hanover
• Hollifield Station Elementary School, 8701 Stonehouse Drive, Ellicott City
• Ilchester Elementary School, 4981 Ilchester Road, Ellicott City
• Laurel Woods Elementary School, 9250 North Laurel Road, Laurel
• Manor Woods Elementary School, 11575 Frederick Road, Ellicott City
• Veterans Elementary School, 4355 Montgomery Road, Ellicott City
• Waverly Elementary School, 10220 Wetherburn Road, Ellicott City

For information about how to register or for details, visit https://www.howardcountymd.gov/childcare or call 410-313-7275.