Will the childcare center be part of the school district?  

No, Clear Creek Metropolitan Recreation District (CCMRD) has agreed to operate the center as an independent affiliate organization.  As an affiliate organization, the center has the opportunity to reduce operating costs by benefiting from CCMRD’s current legal, payroll, and insurance infrastructure.  The school district will act as a landlord.

How many childcare seats will be available?  

The proposed 6,100 SF center would support 66 children in five classrooms and create at least fifteen new jobs.  

Who will be able to use the Center?  

The childcare center will be available to all Clear Creek families.  Some seats may be reserved for employees of local organizations that support the construction and operation of the center. Clear Creek County, Clear Creek School District, and Clear Creek Metropolitan Recreation District have made commitments to financially support the center.

Can I work at the Center? 

Yes!  Employment will require training and certification and the Center will be offering classes in Summer 2023  for adults to become qualified.  Programs for high school students will follow. 

Why will the Center offer classes for early childhood certification to members of our community? 

By developing and implementing classes for our students and community members, the center’s staff will reflect the families living and working in Clear Creek while ensuring qualified employees are available to be hired.

Will employees be fairly paid? 

The current compensation model averages $23/hr with full benefits and an annual retention bonus.  Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Living Wage Calculator estimates a living wage in Idaho Springs is $21/hr.

What hours will the center be open?  

The Center’s goal during the first years is to successfully provide childcare during traditional hours work hours. When possible, the center plans to extend hours into weekends, evenings, and to expand capacity during school holidays.

What teaching philosophy will be used?  

Clear Creek Metropolitan Recreation District proposes a teaching philosophy that prioritizes experiential learning, hands-on activities, and time spent outdoors. They have proposed curricula with a recreational-based philosophy and envision a blend of Montessori and Forest School components.

How will this childcare center support the economy?  

Accessible, affordable, and high-quality care will generate substantial economic activity and growth by:

Immediately creating $830,000 in annual wages with a total impact of $1,743,000 locally per year.

Enabling individuals to increase their workforce participation – the center is expected to allow 35-50 community members to increase their productivity.  The center will help local employers attract and retain employees.

Investing in children to provide life skills development and support kindergarten readiness