Amherst, N.H. (October 3, 2022) – Pumpkins, apples and snakes, oh my! It was a perfect fall evening filled with smiles and laughter when Sunrise Children’s Center, an early childhood education center that is a program of the Regional Services and Education Center (RSEC), celebrated its fifth annual Fall Festival. Held on Thursday, September 29, the event was highlighted by unveiling newly renovated classrooms, the arrival of a new playground and a special dedication to long-time RSEC director, Judy Koch, who recently retired after 48 years. It was a memorable evening for all the families, pre-schoolers, teachers and community supporters who were in attendance

“We thank Judy for everything that she has done including the amazing support, leadership and guidance that you provided to us all to make change happen for quality programs with quality staff,” said Lorraine Greer, Sunrise director. “Located in our new playground, The Miss Judy bench will forever remind us of the legacy that she has left us with and the impact that she has made throughout RSEC.”

As the recipient of grant funding from the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services’ Child Care Stabilization Program, Sunrise was able to make some much needed improvements and enhancements to its programs. Seven classrooms were renovated with painted walls, new furniture, and upgraded flooring along with a new playground and outdoor classroom where the children of Sunrise will learn and grow.

Families enjoyed a jam-packed evening with food and entertainment. Wildlife Encounters hosted a live animal presentation with Jelly Belly, a 1.5-pound giant African bullfrog, a blue and gold macaw named Sophie, and Gizmo, an opossum who never developed eyes. Pre-schoolers were able to get hands-on with a yellow albino snake and white Himalayan lionhead rabbit before dancing and singing along to music by Aaron. A chili-cookoff, raffle and fall-themed games capped off the evening.

Sunrise Children’s Center is a place for children to learn and grow in a caring environment. Located in Amherst, N.H., Sunrise is a home away from home for children ages six weeks to 10 years old (or fourth grade) through infant and toddler programs, full-day childcare services, preschool education and school-age programing. The center’s approach is developmental in nature. The curriculum is based on the fact that all children grow at their own pace and learn best by doing. Sunrise has brought together the best practices from early childhood education and special education to provide the best curriculum possible for children in the program.

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