The City of Chattanooga’s Department of Youth & Family Development (YFD) and the Partnership for Families, Children, and Adults Wednesday celebrated the opening of a new STEAM (Science, Tech, Education, Arts, and Math) Lab, I.AM.READY Resource Center, and redesigned gym at the Youth & Family Administration Building on 12th Street.
City officials, the Partnership, and Tennessee Department of Children’s Services Commissioner James Henry cut the ribbon of opportunity, opening the doors to the public, and showcasing the new programs and centers.
The new STEAM lab will bring elements of science, technology, education, arts, and math to young students who enroll, or are currently enrolled, in Head Start and YFD child care programs. The lab is fitted with several computers and hands-on areas, and will become an integral part of creating smarter students.
“A child’s brain develops at its fastest rate between birth and three years old,” said Jason McKinney, YFD Education Coordinator. “Our lab and its programs will give every youth the head start they need for success, and serve as a critical part of early childhood education.”
Partnership’s I.AM.READY Independent Living Resource Center will provide services to teens aging out of foster care. The program will provide financial readiness training, life and social skills, health education, and mentorship to older teens.
“We’re proud to be the lead agency on this initiative,” said Jack Parks, Director of Youth Services with Partnership. “We hope this will become a national model other agencies can follow, serving thousands of teens well into their adult life.