This is a favorite time of year where the weather cools off a little, the leaves slowly begin to change, and we begin to feel renewed. The children have developed attachment bonds and strong relationships with their teachers allowing them to explore more freely. It is exciting to witness the process of children becoming more independent as they build confidence, explore new ideas, and challenge themselves. 

The fall is a busy time of year. Be sure to check our fall calendar for upcoming events and closures. Read more below about exciting things to come.

FAMILY ADVISORY BOARD (FAB) 

Our Family Advisory Board (FAB) met on September 19, 2023. The leaders of the 2023-2024 FAB are Tiffany Railsback-Chair and Cody Weiss-Chair-Elect We want to thank you for your service! The committee reviewed membership guidelines and goals from the previous year, continued discussions on establishing a Parent Cultural Committee and began formulating continuous improvement goals for the 2023-2024 school year. The next FAB meeting will be on November 7. If you would like to serve on the Family Advisory Board, stop by the front desk and ask for a FAB form to complete. 

CULTURAL COMMITTEE 

A goal set by the FAB during the 2022-2023 school year was to create a Parent Cultural Committee. The basic purpose of the committee is to plan, organize and provide cultural enrichment for the children and families at BGCC. The PCC will have a shared leadership model comprised of BGCC administration and parent volunteers. The plan is to meet twice a year – once in the fall semester and once in the spring semester. Su Jiang volunteered to lead the committee. If you are interested in serving on that committee, please send an email to Deborah Almand or scan the QR code located on the flyer at the front desk.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, October 20 & 21 

Fall professional development days are quickly approaching. The teaching staff from Becky Gates Children’s Center and Charlotte Sharp Children’s Center will come together on Oct. 20 for professional development.  Both Centers will be closed on Oct. 20 to accommodate this training. Topics to be covered with the teaching staff include science/nature-based play, bilingual students, early language development, and integrating writing and literacy into play. On Oct. 21, the student employees will gather for training which focuses on their role in the classroom.  

When teachers are given time for professional development children’s learning and outcomes improve! 

 SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR, October 23-27 

The fall Scholastic Book Fair is coming October 23-27! You will find a variety of books to purchase in the MP building. There will be a Teacher Wishlist Area during the book fair where you can select a book for your child’s classroom. BGCC earns scholastic dollars for the purchases you make. This means we can use our Scholastic dollars throughout the year to purchase new books and materials as needed. 

25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION, Oct. 27 

The Becky Gates Children’s Center turned 25 in August! Make plans to join us for a celebration on October 27, 2023 from 3:30PM to 5:30PM! Learn more about the history of Becky Gates Children’s Center in the August Center Spotlight.  

The future holds exciting opportunities for BGCC and early childhood on the campus of Texas A&M University. Through the generosity of the donations from the McFerrin’s and support and love for childcare from Becky Gates, they were able to Open the Gates to a Lifetime of Learning. If you are interested in supporting the future endeavors of BGCC, please donate here.