Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the expansion of child care services at 11 SUNY community colleges, including Tompkins Cortland Community College, to better assist student parents enrolled in high-demand programs, including SUNY Reconnect courses. TC3 will receive $186,375 as part of the initiative.

 “We are investing in the futures of our adult learners and student parents to ensure they can pursue and achieve their dreams,” said Governor Hochul. “Through the expansion of child care across SUNY’s community college campuses, the SUNY Reconnect program and dedicated support initiatives, we are reinforcing our commitment to meeting the needs of adult learners and offering them a path to upward mobility.” 

The expansion of child care access will support adult learners enrolled in the SUNY Reconnect initiative, which provides free college tuition, fees, books and supplies for adults ages 25-55 who don’t already have a college degree and want to pursue an associate degree in a high-demand field. At TC3, the money will allow at least four and as many as eight part-time infant and toddler spots to be dedicated specifically to adult students with families. Having services available on a part-time basis, to align with adult students’ class schedules, is a key aspect of the new funding.

 “We are grateful to the Governor and Chancellor King for their shared belief of making a college degree accessible,” said TC3 President Amy Kremenek. “This investment is another example of that shared belief. It will allow us to create highly flexible, part-time spots in our childcare center specifically for adult students with families, expanding opportunities for students in need of child care.”

“Student parents should be able to focus on their studies without having to worry about finding safe and affordable child care,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. “The expansion of the child care programs across SUNY’s community colleges will work to remove barriers, so all of our students can receive the support they need to pursue the education of their dreams. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her leadership, support and investment in this initiative.”