Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk Re-Brands Its Childcare Center

East Patchogue, NY – APRIL 4, 2016 – The Tutor Time of East Patchogue sign was replaced with “Way to Grow,” signaling a renewed focus on preparing children for the challenges of today’s K-12 learning environment. Located in the Swan Nursery Commons, the center – which has been serving the area’s children since 2001 – is owned and operated by the not-for-profit Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk.

“While the Tutor Time model served us well for many years, after careful consideration, we recognized that we needed greater flexibility to make program changes that will better prepare children for kindergarten,” commented center director Carol Kelly. “Not only will we be able to deliver superior services to our children, but we will also be able to invest more resources into our school.” Kelly added that the program will now be better aligned with the state’s Common Core curriculum.

Ms. Kelly emphasized that the center remains fully committed to the East Patchogue community and that there will be total continuity of management and staff.

“We are happy in our present location and want to continue to keep serving the families in Southern Brookhaven Town,” said Adrian Fassett, C.E.O. of the Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk. “We have always been proud to be part of the local educational infrastructure as well as an ongoing contributor to East Patchogue’s economic development.”

Fassett added that the change also helps to fulfill the broader mission of the Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk as it serves a full demographic spectrum of young people.

The “Way to Grow” educational child care program offers developmentally appropriate programs with specialized curriculum for a variety of ages, from 6 weeks to 12 years. The center offers a fitness program in its 3,000-square-foot gym, as well as a weekly music program.

For more information, visit www.TheWayToGrow.org.

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Photo Caption:
Cutting the ceremonial ribbon at Way to Grow are, from left: Hon. Robert Calarco, Suffolk County Legislator and Deputy Presiding Officer; Adrian Fassett, C.E.O., Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk; Carol Kelly, Director, Way to Grow; Lauren Clark, Assistant Director, Way to Grow; Salvatore Nicosia, Aide to State Senator Thomas Croci; Hon. Paul Pontieri, Mayor, Village of Patchogue; and, Hon. Edward Romaine, Supervisor, Town of Brookhaven.