Early education lays a strong foundation

When asked what I do for a living I respond, “I am a teacher.” When asked which grade I teach, I contemplate changing the topic.

Two Mary Johnson teachers receive national awards

MIDDLEBURY — Two Mary Johnson Children’s Center caregivers have received national awards for their work this year. Jackie Prime and Brainna Heller were recognized as teachers who continue to raise the bar for the early childhood field with the Terri Lynne … (read more)

DiFranco takes over MJCC school-age programs

After 32 years with Mary Johnson Children’s Center, directing school age and afterschool programs, Anne Gleason retired at the end of 2021.

Dylan Bell joins Mary Johnson

MIDDLEBURY — Mary Johnson Children’s Center has found the right candidate to join their administrative team as Operations Manager. Dylan Bell will oversee the 51-year-old non-profit’s financial and human resource systems.Bell was born and raised in Ocean … (read more)

Mary Johnson closes after positive COVID test

MIDDLEBURY — The Mary Johnson Children’s Center (MJCC) closed its Middlebury program early today, Monday, Feb. 22, and is discussing potential reopening protocols with Vermont Department of Health officials in wake of a positive COVID-19 test registered b … (read more)

Mary Johnson Children’s Center receives grant to help feed kids

MIDDLEBURY — Mary Johnson Children’s Center recently received a $10,000 grant from the Help Feed Kids and Families During Summer program. The center has been working to respond to the dramatic surge in requests for food assistance during the COVID-19 cris … (read more)

Dunne named director at childcare center

MIDDLEBURY — Mary Johnson Children’s Center (MJCC) on Friday announced that Executive Director Dave Mandel is leaving to pursue other professional opportunities. “Although Dave’s time with the center was short, his impact was great as he helped guide the … (read more)

Mary Johnson Children’s Center director departs

MIDDLEBURY — Mary Johnson Children’s Center (MJCC) on Friday announced that Executive Director Dave Mandel is leaving to pursue other professional opportunities. “Although Dave’s time with the center was short, his impact was great as he helped guide the … (read more)

Lawmakers get up-close look at local pre-K

MIDDLEBURY/ORWELL — A group of legislators from several committees last week visited pre-kindergarten programs in Middlebury and Orwell as they explored the current status of universal pre-k in Vermont and possible changes to the law that created it. The … (read more)

Mary Johnson taps Dave Mandel to be next executive director

MIDDLEBURY — Mary Johnson Children’s Center has hired Dave Mandel as its new executive director. The resident of Connecticut and New York City will succeed Barbara Saunders, who is retiring after more than 30 years of service to the Middlebury childcare c … (read more)