$1M grant awarded to build 2 preschools

By Derrick DePledge
Advertiser Capitol Bureau

A private nonprofit corporation will receive a $1 million state grant to help build two new preschools in West O'ahu and relieve some pressure on the state's crowded preschools.

Seagull Schools, which now operates four preschools, estimates the new schools in Ocean Pointe and Ko Olina will serve 360 children. The construction of the schools could be completed by April 2006.

Gov. Linda Lingle announced yesterday that she has released the money.

The Lingle administration also plans to spend $5 million in state money to expand a state preschool subsidy program for low- and middle-income families, and an additional $20 million in federal welfare money on preschool and childcare access and quality. But with only 415 vacancies at licensed preschools statewide, capacity has been a question.

Chuck Larson, executive director at Seagull Schools, said he expects the two new preschools to be at capacity from the first day they open. "They are in areas that have been designated as in the most need for these services," he said. "But there is demand in almost any area."

The schools, Larson said, will be on land donated by Haseko Inc. and Ko Olina Resort & Marina to satisfy development agreements with the city. Along with the state grant, Seagull will also receive grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and several private foundations.

Lingle said the first five years of a child's life are critical to his or her future academic success, and said the new schools would "ensure that the children have the opportunity to acquire the skills and knowledge they need to be fully prepared to succeed when they enter kindergarten."

Alex Harris, policy director for Good Beginnings Alliance, said the projects point to what he believes is a huge demand by parents for preschool. "I think that Seagull has been very creative in their attempts to expand their capacity and maintain program quality at the same time," he said.

Reach Derrick DePledge at 525-8070 or ddepledge@honoluluadvertiser.com.