We are beyond grateful that we have experienced only a handful of Covid cases within our immediate program since returning this past spring.  We strongly feel this is a direct correlation to the extreme caution and consideration of our parents.  So with that, thank you for continuing to put the health and welfare of the children/staff of Discovery above the importance of your careers, and keeping your children home whenever they are displaying Covid related symptoms.  If not for your diligence, keeping our doors open likely wouldn’t be possible during these uncertain times.

Despite the fact Discovery has yet to experience an “outbreak” within our facility, we cannot deny the simple fact that the number of Covid cases within Yellowstone County are continuing to escalate, putting an enormous strain on the already over crowded hospitals in our area.  It is likely that given the upcoming holiday festivities, numbers will only continue on an upward trend.

While the Department of Public Health and Human Services states that, because child care facilities are not open to the general public, employees and children are exempt from the state wide mask mandate.  Furthermore, we feel that wearing a mask while working with young children creates educational and emotional barriers.  The kiddos can’t “see” the expressions we rely on to properly communicate with them.

However, we are asking that for the foreseeable future, parents wear a mask/face covering while dropping off and picking up their child(ren) from the facility.  We are hopeful that this added precaution will ensure our families and staff remain healthy throughout the holiday season gatherings!

We appreciate your continued consideration for the children, staff, and extended families of Discovery!