News

July 17, 2019

Member Spotlight: Rosa Venerini Early Childhood Center

In this week’s Member Spotlight we highlight Rosa Venerini Early Childhood Center in Schenectady. Originally founded in the 1950s as St. Anthony’s School, the school was rebranded as Rosa Venerini Early Childhood Center in 2011. The Center is a private, independent, nonprofit early learning center governed by a board of directors. Their mission is to create independent learners.

Jessica Rowell, MPA, is the Executive Director at Rosa Venerini Early Childhood Center and is proud of the fact that local elementary schools have such positive things to say about kids from Rosa. Says Rowell, “We focus on each child as ‘young scholars’, understanding that whether they are in our daycare, early preschool or Pre-K/UPK programs, their academic and social/emotional success starts here!” Their partnership with other area agencies, such as Capital District Beginnings and the Schenectady City School District, further enhance the learning and growth opportunities they provide all scholars.

In addition to serving as a daycare, early learning center and school, the facility hosts many community groups and events. For several years, they have had a longstanding tenant relationship with the Capital District Fencing Association. The group uses their gymnasium after hours several times a week and on weekends, hosting coaching sessions and matches.

Rosa is also in the final stages of becoming designated as a Breast-feeding Friendly Childcare Facility by the New York State Department of Health. They are committed to protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding and actively support breastfeeding families by providing a designated breastfeeding space that is welcoming, clean and comfortable for families and staff alike. Their goal is to help mothers continue breastfeeding when they return to work or school. Stay tuned for an upcoming ribbon-cutting with the Chamber on the new breastfeeding-friendly space at Rosa!

When asked about her favorite part about living and working in the Capital Region she says, “collaboration between organizations, agencies and business partners. So many business owners are community-minded and truly enjoy giving back and investing their time, talents or treasure in the work going on at the community level. Many business leaders and entrepreneurs with success stories in our region came from the very neighborhoods our organization serves, and to receive support to further a mission of creating independent learners and young scholars, makes it all worth it. I can’t help but sound cliché, but truly- the children are our future and it absolutely takes a village! Those interested in investing in any way in advancing young scholars in Schenectady should connect with me and become a part of the Rosa difference!”