CAY ELC Spotlight: Community Leaders on ECHO Bus Tour

On Tuesday, November 19, the Crispus Attucks York (CAY) Early Learning Center (ELC) had the honor of being one of four early childhood education providers featured on the ECHO Bus Tour, hosted by Community Connections for Children (CCC), York County Economic Alliance (YCEA), and ECHO (Every Child Has Opportunities) for community leaders to spotlight the early childhood education industry in York County. This event also celebrated the successes of the first round of ECHO Innovation Grant funding.

The ECHO tour began with breakfast at The Yorktowne Hotel before arriving at CAY ELC as the first stop at 9:30 AM. Mrs.Valerie Foreman, Director of CAY ELC, and Camille Sipe, Assistant Director, welcomed guests alongside CAY CEO Robert “Bobby” Simpson.

During the visit, the team shared the rich history of Crispus Attucks York and provided a tour of the beautiful CAY Early Learning Center building, constructed in 2010. A highlight of the tour was the rooftop playground. Staff emphasized how the organization utilized pilot funding to address the increasing demand for a Pre-K Counts classroom, as evidenced by a waitlist of over 200 applicants. Guests also learned about the grant’s significant impact on the children, families, and broader community served by CAY ELC.

It was a meaningful opportunity to showcase the essential role early learning plays in shaping the future of York County, while celebrating the collaborative efforts that continue to drive innovation in early childhood education here at CAY ELC.

The participants had the opportunity to see where the funding will be used, including the room that will be transformed into a Pre-K Counts classroom. Planned renovations include essential updates, such as installing bathrooms. If the funding is approved, CAY ELC will be able to create space for an additional 20 children, helping to meet the growing needs of our community.

CAY would love to thank all those who made this tour possible and those who attended.