Empower Preschool Expands Hours to Help Working Families

Empower, the not-for-profit organization formerly known as Niagara Cerebral Palsy, operates a year-round preschool that is open to 3- and 4-year-old children of all abilities. It is located at 9812 Lockport Rd. in the Town of Niagara, across from the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station.

While it is best known for educating preschoolers with disabilities, Empower Children’s Academy also offers integrated classes that include typically developing children.  Half-day classes run from 8:40 a.m. to 11:10 p.m., or noon to 2:30 p.m., at $10 per day, while full-day classes run from 8:40 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at $20 per day. Beginning in the fall, before- and after-school care will be available between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at a rate of $5 per hour.

Empower Children’s Academy is an affordable alternative to traditional preschools and offers many more amenities.  With a staff of almost 50 certified teachers, teacher aides and specialists, students benefit from low student-to-teacher ratios.  There is also low staff turnover at the school, ensuring a stable learning environment for students.  Lesson plans are based on New York State learning standards and are individualized to each student’s needs.  In addition, learning is stimulated through gross motor and sensory rooms, as well as an outdoor playground with a newly installed safety surface.  Children’s Academy students are ready for kindergarten when they graduate.

“Empower Children’s Academy is a structured preschool program, but one that is fun-filled,” said Empower Chief Executive Officer Jeff Paterson. “Caregivers can rest easy, knowing their children are receiving outstanding instruction and care. I can say that with confidence, because my 3-year-old son attends Empower Children’s Academy, and he has flourished here.”

To learn more about Empower Children’s Academy or to schedule a tour, please call the school directly at (716) 297-1478, ext. 160, or visit www.empower-wny.org.

With 300 employees and a $14 million budget, Empower is one of Western New York’s 50 largest nonprofit organizations. The administrative offices, preschool, community clinic and service coordination program are located on Lockport Road in the Town of Niagara. The job training and day programs division is based in Niagara Falls, while residential facilities are located throughout Niagara County. Licensed by the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities and the New York State Education Department, Empower is an affiliate of the Cerebral Palsy Associations of New York State.

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