Young Parents Education Center: Empowering Young Families in Great Falls, Montana
GREAT FALLS, Mont. – The Young Parents Education Center, nestled within the Paris Gibson Education Center, has emerged as a beacon of hope and support for adolescent parents in the Great Falls community. With a mission to assist young parents in completing their education while simultaneously raising their children, the program delivers invaluable resources that contribute significantly to the academic and personal development of its participants.
Liviann Smith, a 10th grader and participant in the program, shared how it has profoundly changed her life. “They watch my baby while I’m doing schoolwork, which alleviates my concerns about her well-being,” Smith remarked. “I can check in on her whenever I need to and focus on my classes with peace of mind.” Smith emphasized the transformative impact of the program, asserting it enables her to prioritize her education without the constant worry that often accompanies young motherhood.
Established over 50 years ago, the Young Parents Education Center was born out of necessity, addressing a growing crisis of school dropouts among young mothers. Executive Director Susie Zeak highlighted the organization’s foundational mission: “The original reason the center was created was to prevent teenagers from leaving school after becoming pregnant.” This commitment to education has been crucial in helping young parents navigate the dual challenges of parenting and academic responsibilities.
Beyond offering childcare, the center provides essential parenting education, focusing on equipping young parents with the skills necessary for child-rearing. “We have a dedicated parent educator who teaches classes on developmental milestones and other vital parenting topics,” Zeak explained. This educational component has proven invaluable for participants like Smith, who articulated the benefits of understanding her child’s needs. “Learning what to expect developmentally has made a significant difference in how I care for her. I’ve gained insights into interpreting her cues and knowing how to respond when she is unwell,” Smith noted.
For young parents grappling with the complexities of balancing school and childcare, Smith encourages perseverance. “Just finish,” she advises. “It can be tough, but focusing on the future for both myself and my daughter is essential. It’s challenging, but ultimately rewarding.”
Describing the center’s role as a supportive community, Zeak stated that staff and educators act as a “larger family” for participants. “We serve as additional support systems, guiding young parents through their challenges and providing crucial parenting education.”
Recently, the Young Parents Education Center received a generous donation of computers from Holman Aviation, facilitated by the United Way. Zeak acknowledged the significance of these donations, stating, “Computers are a necessary resource and can be prohibitively expensive, so community support is vital to our mission.”
In conclusion, the Young Parents Education Center is an integral part of Great Falls, helping young parents not only to continue their education but also to nurture healthy relationships with their children. As Smith expressed, “The support I receive from the program empowers me to pursue my goals and aspire for a better life for my daughter.” The center remains dedicated to building a brighter future for both young parents and their families.
For more information about the Young Parents Education Center and its offerings, visit Young Parents Education Center.
