Community colleges in Silicon Valley are closing child-care centers to save money, reports the San Jose Mercury News. West Valley College‘s model center — known for its outdoor program — may close next year.
A single father with sole custody of 4-year-old Anthony and 2-year-old Victoria, Dinh Nguyen uses the on-campus care so he can study medical technology. Without affordable child care, Nguyen fears he’ll have to give on a health career — or give up his children for adoption. “I cannot hold on to my children if I cannot provide a future for them,” he said. “This is killing me.”
The 45-year-old program is part of the Child Studies Department, whose students observe the children as part of the curriculum. But the program is running a $200,000 deficit.
In the area, San Jose City College, Evergreen Valley College and Foothill College, have closed their child-care centers.
“In this time of national crisis, this type of program should be replicated, not dismantled. For short-term budget cuts, they’re going to shut down a 45-year-old program. There is no wisdom in this type of decision-making,” said Stephanie Antwan, whose 3-year-old son Benjamin attends the program.
. . . Elizabeth Rivera, 19, said she is “trying to pursue a dream for me and my daughter,” 3-year-old Natalie Ornelas.
“What they don’t understand is that this daycare is essential for people like me that have children and are trying to attend school. Without this daycare many of us, as well as me, won’t be able to continue our education.”
State reimbursements for low-income children have fallen short and more state budget cuts are likely.
