Local child care center gives bonuses

DINGMANS FERRY — Little Acorns Daycare, a ministry of praise and mercy fellowship in Dingmans Ferry gave bonuses to all employees last month. The bonuses ranged from $150 To $1545 for the workers. The center is involved in a quality improvement program called stars. In the Stars Program, centers are awarded up to four stars, each one being more difficult to attain than the previous one. Workers are required to attend many workshops and improve their skills in their respective classrooms. Stars grants centers that meet all of the requirements certain monies to spend on their program. Joy Merrihew, the director of Little Acorns and Pastor Marilyn Herbert decided to reward all of the employees directly rather than just buy equipment. Another program that Little Acorns is involved in is the Teach Scholarship Program. Employees are encourage to attend college, enroll in early childhood education courses and work towards an associate, bachelor, or master’s degree. The center pays the tuition, paid release time, and regular bonuses. “The program is a win, win for all involved”, stated Ms Merrihew; “everyone benefits, the employee, the center, and most importantly, the children we serve.” Currently there are three workers who are involved in the program, Lori Valente, Janet Demaio, and Noelle Benson. Lori has been enrolled the longest and is close to completing her degree.