| St. Mark’s Day Care Center is a child day care and learning facility serving approximately 130 children from low- to moderate- income families from the Greater Bridgeport area. The Center was founded by a collaboration of two local churches; St. Mark’s Episcopal in Bridgeport and Trinity Episcopal, Southport, Connecticut. These churches were brought together as a response to the dream of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The collaborative was formed after Dr. King’s death in 1968. The Center opened in 1970 in a former grocery-storefront. In 1988 that building was razed and an 8000 sq. ft. facility specifically designed for children was built on the same site, at the corner of Newfield Ave. and Eagle Street, across from Newfield Park where many Negro-League baseball players began their careers, and from St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. The new Center was opened in 1993.
The population served by St. Mark’s is predominantly African-American, with the balance divided between Hispanic-Americans, Caribbean Islanders (primarily Jamaicans), and Caucasians. Multicultural respect is a high priority for the administration, teaching staff, families, and children alike. An ongoing process of teacher training is the key to providing the best in care and learning for Center participants who range in age from 6 weeks to 12 years.
St. Mark’s Day Care Center, Inc. is eligible under the IRS code and operates as an independent 501(c) 3 community service agency. St. Mark’s Day Care Center is a non-denominational, non-sectarian facility although it carries the name “St. Mark’s” proudly. The Center was formerly called “The Aaron Cuffee Center,” named for the founder and first Rector of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. SMDCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
A fifteen (15) member Board of Directors represents Church, Business, Social Service, and Local Residents and provides the governance for St. Mark’s Day Care Center. Parent Representation is elected to serve on the Board. The Board of Directors meets each month, except for August. They govern through a committee structure of finance, personnel, policy, and facility oversight.
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ST. MARK'S DAY CARE CENTER INC.
368/70 Newfield Ave, Bridgeport, Ct 06607
Phone: 203.335.3828 Fax: 203.335.4344
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