Talbot County Public Schools is proud to announce that a Judy Center Early Learning Hub grant has been awarded to Tilghman Elementary School. This funding, provided by The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), will enable the Judy Center to expand its resources and services for children and families in the community, strengthening early learning opportunities and family engagement. Tilghman Elementary School will join Easton Elementary School (established in 2002) and St. Michaels Elementary School (established in 2021) as Judy Center sites in Talbot County. The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, also known as the Maryland Blueprint, includes provisions aimed at expanding Judy Centers as part of its focus on early childhood education. Tilghman is one of seven new sites awarded by the grants this school year. The goal is to increase the number of Judy Centers across the state, ensuring that more families have access to comprehensive early childhood services. Each Judy Center grant must be renewed annually through a detailed data-driven grant process.

The Judy Center, known for its comprehensive approach to early childhood education, supports children from birth through age five and their caregivers. Enrollment is open to all families residing in the Tilghman Elementary School district at no cost to families. Judy Center staff work alongside families to support children in entering kindergarten ready to succeed. With this new grant, the center will be able to:

● Provide enriching opportunities in all domains of child development to support school readiness

● Expand parent workshops, family engagement, and family support services

● Offer new professional development opportunities for Early Childhood Educators

● Improve access to resources such as health screenings, developmental assessments, and enrichment activities for young learners

Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, Superintendent of Talbot County Public Schools, expressed excitement about the new funding, stating, “This grant will allow us to build on the Judy Center’s strong foundation and continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of our youngest learners and their families. We are deeply grateful to Maryland Blueprint and MSDE for recognizing the importance of early education and investing in the future of our communities.”

The Judy Center serves as a vital resource for local families, offering a wide range of services that go beyond the classroom. By partnering with community organizations, the center ensures that children and families receive the support they need in health, education, and social services. The new grant will help the school enhance these partnerships and continue delivering high-quality services that foster both academic and social-emotional growth.