Director's Review
Fannie Battle’s determination continues to inspire the staff at the Day Home. She was a woman who saw a need, and against substantial odds, met it. We face many challenges in pursuing our mission of providing high-quality childcare and educational programs to low-income families. In every program area and new venture, our staff is determined to offer excellence.
The year 2006-2007 continued to be a year of seeking excellence. For the 6th Consecutive year, Fannie Battle received a 3 Star rating which is the highest recognition a childcare center can receive from the Tennessee Department of Human Services. We have received this rating every year since the inception of the 3 Star Program. Our Preschool and Pre-K were recognized by the United Way’s Read To Succeed Program as Classrooms of Excellence. Our teachers welcomed more than 50 early childhood educators to observe their classes. Also, 10 out of 18 staff members were continuing their education. Please join me in congratulating our staff on these tremendous accomplishments.
The Day Home continues to maintain a full enrollment and a waiting list for each age level. We have 85 children daily during the school year and 96 in the summer. While full enrollment is an accomplishment, we regret that the waiting lists continue to grow. The waiting list for the Preschool exceeds 30 children and the first available space in the Infant/Toddler class will be the fall of 2008. This makes it difficult to meet the needs of many of our current families in caring for their children under one roof and prevents us from serving additional low-income families.
As executive director, I represent Fannie Battle in the community as current President of the Nashville Area Association for the Education of Young Children (NAAEYC) and on several committees and boards throughout Tennessee and Nashville. My professional involvement and partnerships enrich the Day Home, our staff, and our families.
This annual report covers in detail some of Fannie Battle Day Home’s accomplishments for 2006-2007. The Day Home’s success is owed to the continued support of our donors, volunteers, board, staff and community. Thanks to each of you for your support of our mission.
~Sara Longhini, Executive Director
Ms. Sara working with children in the Day Home.
