McChord Field Gateway Center gives parents options

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Leah Young
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  From part-day preschool to advanced fencing classes, the McChord Field Child, Youth and School Services Gateway Center provides several options for parents and their children, both during and after school hours.

"This place has come a long way since we became a joint base," said Samantha Rivera, McChord Field Gateway Center director. "There were specific needs for families here, and we're finally able to fulfill those needs."

Located in building 560, the center is divided between two areas of focused learning.
Kindergarten and recently established part-day preschool programs provide students the chance to grow in a classroom environment, surrounded by their peers. Classes are in full swing and always looking to fill open spaces.

With a maximum enrollment of 88, the part-day preschool is currently has 56 children enrolled in the program. Classes are held in both morning and afternoon sessions, with the option of a two, three or five day per week commitment.

Located on the opposite end of the Gateway Center are rooms dedicated to the Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills program. The program provides an array of instructional, resiliency-building activities for parents and their children to include ballet, gymnastics, jazz classes and more.

"We're trying to mirror exactly what Lewis Main has to offer," said Amy Nott, JBLM SKIES director. "The goal is to create an equal balance of opportunities on both sides of the installation."

According to both Nott and Rivera, including services on both Lewis Main and McChord Field presents a new level of convenience for busy families.

"Every family has a unique situation," said Rivera. "The location of this center makes it easier for them to take advantage of the programs we offer. Parents can drop off their children and find time to stop at the store or spend some time at the gym."

To register for services offered at any JBLM CYSS location, parents can visit the McChord Field Gateway Center, located next to the Commissary, or call 253 - 982 - 1563 for more information.

Parents can also enroll online at jblmmwr.com/cys by clicking "WebTrac" and searching for SKIES.

SKIES classes

Classes run for four weeks. Costs reflect one four-week session. The enrollment deadline is the fourth Friday of the month prior to the class.

Dance

Ballet, ages 3 - 6, $40, Wednesdays 4 - 4:45 p.m.
Pre Ballet and Jazz, ages 3 - 6, $40, Mondays 3:35 - 4:20 p.m.
Pre Ballet and Jazz, ages 3 - 6, $40, Wednesdays 3 - 3:45 p.m.
Pre Ballet and Jazz, ages 3 - 6, $40, Fridays 3:30 - 4:15 p.m.
*Parent and Me Dance, ages 2 - 3, $25, Mondays 3 - 3:30 p.m.

Fencing

Beginners Fencing, ages 7 - 17, $46, Tuesdays 4 - 5 p.m.
Beginners Fencing, ages 7 - 17, $46, Thursdays 4 - 5 p.m.
Advanced Fencing, ages 7 - 17, $46, Wednesdays 4 - 5 p.m.

Gymnastics

*Wiggles and Giggles, ages 6 months - 4, $15, Fridays 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Pre-School Gymnastics, ages 3 - 5, $30, Fridays 11:15 - 11:45

*Parent participation required