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NILES — The YMCA of Greater Michiana and Niles Community Schools have announced an upcoming transition in the operation of the Montessori Program at Northside Child Development Center. 

Beginning this fall, the YMCA will assume ownership and management of the program at Northside, a long-standing shared space with Niles Community Schools. Northside is currently home to the YMCA’s Child Care Network and Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) Preschool, as well as the school district’s Montessori and special education programs.

“This transition supports the continued availability of Montessori education in our community while aligning with the YMCA’s long-standing role in early childhood development,” said Dr. Zechariah Hoyt, Executive Director of Youth Development, YMCA of Greater Michiana. “Montessori classrooms emphasize student-led learning and exploration, an approach that fits well with our commitment to fostering academic and social growth in young children.”

The Montessori Program in Niles has provided a student-centered learning environment since 2013. As the YMCA takes on program oversight, it will maintain the program’s core structure while integrating additional resources to support families and students.

“We appreciate our partnership with the YMCA of Greater Michiana and their ongoing work in early childhood education,” said Dr. Adam Burtsfield, Superintendent at Niles Community Schools. “The Montessori Program has been an important part of Niles Community Schools, and this transition ensures its continuity for students and families who value this approach.”

Officials stated that families currently enrolled in the Niles Montessori Program will experience a seamless transition, with support from both the YMCA and Niles Community Schools to maintain consistency in curriculum and operations.

For more information about Northside Child Development Center programming, please visit https://www.ymcagm.org/preschool-northside or call YMCA of Greater Michiana’s Member Services at (269) 683-1552.