In this article, Kenlee introduces the soon-to-be Children's Museum in Grants Pass, as well as the affiliated Ivy School preschool.
In replacement of the Dutch Bros Headquarters in downtown Grants Pass, a new preschool and children's museum has come about. Through this addition to downtown, efforts are being made to bring new opportunities to local Grants Pass families, providing a safe and engaging environment for children to play. The Oregon Center for Creative Learning is determined to replicate the Children's Museum established in Medford and the Ivy preschool.
The building was generously donated to the Oregon Center for Creative Learning by Dutch Bros. The Dutch Bros company is strongly involved in community efforts and believes that it is important to prioritize early education, especially in Grants Pass. The Children's Musuem of Southern Oregon Website states, "Together, we are brewing a future where every child has the tools they need to succeed and every community member can be proud of the positive change we’re creating.” This building is supposed to be full of creative tools that engage children in learning and help to develop important motor skills to set them up for success in the future. Not only will this children's museum and Ivy preschool benefit the children of Grants Pass, but it will also set a strong foundation for the next generation of Grants Pass citizens.
The Ivy School is an engaging, all-day preschool program, in which children are educated on the basics and importance of learning through play. The preschool is in operation alongside the Children’s Museum. They are also partnered with multiple other local organizations like the YMCA, The Warm Line, Early Intervention Special Childhood Education, and The Family Nurturing Center. The Southern Oregon Education Service District claims that the program's goal is “helping your child thrive socially and emotionally and be prepared for their future transition into Kindergarten.” The Ivy preschool serves as an available resource to children and families of the area, and hopes to help children successfully navigate their early years. Beginning in Sept. 23 and ending on June 4, this is the first school year for the preschool to be in operation.
The Children's Museum, which also runs a branch located in the downtown area of Medford, binds communities together and provides a fun, safe play space for children. According to Travel Southern Oregon, the museum is equipped with a large indoor play space, an outdoor playground, and a clay/culinary extension. Also, the museum is designed to be filled with tools and learning classes that stimulate the cognitive side of a child's brain. There is also a social aspect, a place where children are given opportunities to form friendships and social skills. Local families are also given the opportunity to connect with each other, resulting in a strengthened community bond. Hopefully, the same effect will apply to the Grants Pass community, and this new establishment will thrive off of the need for learning.
This generous donation from Dutch Bros will improve our community and strengthen education opportunities for the young. Preschools and museums serve as fundamental building blocks to children, encouraging them to improve their social, critical, and creative skills. The Oregon Center for Creative Learning is spreading its wings into Grants Pass and uniting southern Oregon early childhood education. The Children's Museum and Ivy School will make a difference for the people of GP!