Grant awarded for early learning center

A local organization is getting some additional help in its effort to start an early learning center.

The Portland Foundation announced Tuesday that it has been selected to receive a $50,000 grant from the Ball Brothers Foundation of Muncie for the renovation and expansion of the playground at the future Jay County Early Learning Center.

“The Portland Foundation is honored to partner with Ball Brothers Foundation to provide services for Jay County’s youngest residents,” said foundation executive director Doug Inman in a press release. “The Jay County Early Learning Center will assist in addressing the shortage of high-quality early childhood education opportunities in the community and as we know, play time is an important part of early education.”

The foundation purchased the former Judge Haynes Elementary School, 827 W. High St., Portland, in 2022 with a goal of converting it into an early learning center. During its annual meeting in May, Inman announced that the foundation had entered into an agreement with Westminster Preschool of Marion to operate Jay County Early Learning Center. The facility is planned to serve 150 newborns through 5-year-old children.

In an interview Tuesday morning, Inman said plans are moving forward with the goal of opening the facility in August. All environmental remediation — removing asbestos, mold and lead paint — has been completed.

The next step is demolition of the west wing of the building, which had extensive roof damage that led to water leaks. That work, being handled by Shroyer Solutions of Muncie, is scheduled to begin Friday.

Once the demolition is complete, a new roof will be installed on the remainder of the structure. Centimark of Fort Wayne is expected to begin that project in mid-November.

The next step for The Portland Foundation is to hire a general contractor for the building renovation. The job is already out for bid.

The entire renovation project is estimated at $3.5 million. The foundation has applied for grants — in September it was awarded a $432,500 Early Years Initiative grant from Early Learning Indiana for renovation, equipment and supplies — but overall the project will be funded through its reserves.

“I feel really good about the progression that we’ve made,” said Inman. “Westminster is excited, ready to get here and find employees, find students. …

“I’m very excited to bring this facility to help children and families in the community.”

Westminster has launched a Facebook page — Westminster Preschools Portland — with forms available to fill out for those interested in childcare and employment at the early learning center.