The Ocracoke Child Care board is diligently working to get the facility re-opened for June! A few important things need to happen to reach that goal, but it’s all very possible. The board has a lot going on in the coming months in order to make this goal a reality.

First, the Green Room has been painted, which means that room is one step closer to being a viable classroom! Yes, there need to be inspections, and the furniture, toys, and supplies need to be placed back in the room, but having the walls painted – courtesy of Mike Dalgleish – has propelled the project forward. Now, the floors can be cleaned and buffed, which will promptly be followed by arranging the room so it’s kid-friendly. As we look to getting the Green Room up and running, the board will be looking for volunteers! If you’re seeking a volunteer opportunity (whatever the reason) or simply want to help this cause, people are welcome to join in the effort! By following OCC on Facebook you’ll be able to see upcoming events.

The board is also planning to begin Saturday playdates! In the coming weeks keep your eyes peeled for announcements regarding this event. For $20 per child, you can drop your little sweeties off for four hours of fun!  Children attending will need to bring their own lunch and any snacks, as well as good playing shoes because will have access to the playground, porch, and Green Room!

In April, get ready for the Clam Chowder Cook-off, now to be a part of the Ocracoke Decoy Festival! This tasty event is open to anyone who wants to compete and will feature two categories: Traditional and Creative. There is a $25 registration fee and tickets to taste will be $12 each. There’s also going to be a cake raffle and fish fry! Yummm! For more information about this event, check out OCC’s Facebook page. Money earned from this event will go directly to the re-opening effort.

OCC needs a director, so if you’re looking an opportunity in education, let the board know! Along with a director is the need for teachers, so if you have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent and are looking for steady, regular work, let the board know! You can email the board president, Mandi Cochran, at mandicochran@hotmail.com

Full disclosure: Crystal is a staff writer for the Ocracoke Current and a Ocracoke Child Care board member.

Other OCC board members are: Mandi Cochran, Leslie Monticone, Celeste Brooks, Tyke Ely, Bob Kremser, Doreen Robinson, and Claire Senseney.