Ribbon Cutting Marks New Chapter for Newton ERBA Head Start
Photos Provided by Mindy Browning
NEWTON – Celebration filled the air Tuesday morning as the Jasper County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting for the Newton ERBA Head Start program. The event not only commemorated the opening of their new facility but also marked 60 years of the program’s service to local low-income families.
The new building brings together all of Newton’s Head Start classrooms under one roof for the first time. Previously, the program was divided into two sites—one at the fairgrounds and another through a partnership with a local daycare. Now, the unified location allows the staff and students, ages 3 to 5, to learn and grow together in a shared space designed specifically for their needs.
Each classroom includes a teacher, a teacher’s aide, and a classroom aide, ensuring that every student receives personalized attention. Staff members have adapted to the changes of working together in a larger setting and are finding success through teamwork and collaboration.
The new facility officially opened to students in January, marking the start of the second semester of last school year. Since then, the program has been able to fully focus on its mission—providing high-quality early education and essential support services. With the new space up and running, staff can concentrate on the students’ needs without the distractions of managing construction or relocation.
The program offers children two meals and a snack each school day, transportation, and health services—resources that many families might not otherwise have access to. Staff members expressed how rewarding it is to finally operate in a fully equipped, permanent building that supports both learning and well-being.
Community support has played a major role in Head Start’s success. Local organizations and residents have contributed donations ranging from coats and shoes to special treats like Dairy Queen’s Dilly Bars. The generosity of the community continues to make a difference for local families, and staff members say they are grateful for the ongoing partnership Jasper County has shown.
Looking ahead, Head Start will host a fundraiser on October 25 at Newton Foods, featuring raffle baskets and other items to raise money for field trips and classroom needs.
The ribbon cutting also served as an opportunity to welcome the community inside the new facility. Staff members hope events like this will help raise awareness of Head Start’s mission and showcase the care, dedication, and effort that go into maintaining such a vibrant learning environment.
The Newton ERBA Head Start team expressed pride in their new building and gratitude for the community’s continued support—making this milestone a true celebration of both education and community spirit.
