Six Children Graduate from ParentChild+ Program

Congratulations to Lia, Camila, Samantha, Rigo, Oscar and Jonathan and their families–the newest graduates of SOCSD’s ParentChild+ program!

The proud grads are the third cohort of children to complete the nationally-recognized research-based, early childhood literacy and parent support program launched by the District in partnership with Rockland 21C in 2019. ParentChild+ is offered at no cost to families who may not have access to preschool or face other challenges and features twice-weekly, 30-minute home visits with Early Learning Specialist Ana Alfaro over a two-year period. Children start the program between the ages of 18 and 24 months and sessions focus on modeling reading and educational play.

“I would like to congratulate the children and parents on their graduation.They have committed the last two years to this program and it truly shows! Each child has grown and learned so much. They have built a strong foundation in this program which prepared them for their next endeavor (kindergarten or pre-k!),” said SOCSD Family Engagement Center Coordinator and Registrar AJ Walker. 

Walker, Alfaro and Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services Karen Tesik, Ed.D. hosted a ceremony on Monday at the Blauvelt Sons of Italy to celebrate their accomplishments! Each child was called up individually to receive certificates of completion as families beamed with pride and snapped pictures.

“Connecting with our families at this young age makes such a huge difference. Our data clearly shows how this program’s graduates soar as they enter our district,” noted Tesik. “A huge thank you to AJ and Ana and congratulations to our youngest graduates!”

Recruitment for the Fall 2025 cohort has officially begun and there are six spots available. To learn more about the program, contact Family Engagement Center Coordinator AJ Walker at awalker1@socsd.org or (845) 680-1137.