The Executive Director of the Social Service Agency BCMW has announced the Centralia Head Start Center will be closed for up to 30 days.
The announcement comes after one of the Head Start teachers was arrested last week on four counts of aggravated battery and three counts of child endangerment to three of her four-year students.
During the temporary closure, Jessica Backs says BCMW Head Start will work with consultants and specialists to review and strengthen policies, procedures, and staff training to further ensure a safe, positive and nurturing environment for every child.
She notes the safety and well-being of the more than 100 children served at BCMW Head Start in Centralia is their highest priority. The early childhood program is federally funded and dedicated to providing high quality learning experiences and comprehensive support for children and families throughout the region.
Backs says they understand the disruption may be challenging for families. BCMW Head Start is actively coordinating with nearby programs and community partners to help identify alternative options and support continuity of services for affected children and families.
Backs closes her statement by saying they remain committed to the highest standards of child safety, care, and program quality and will share updates with families and the community as more information becomes available.
Centralia Police Lieutenant Steve Whritenour says there have been no new developments in the investigation that led to the arrest of 41-year-old Renee Davis of Central City. Davis was arrested after a review of video from her classroom on February 26th allegedly showed her becoming upset with the three children and physically grabbing or shaking them. She is currently on GPS monitoring pending further court action in the case.
