Dear Cortes Island Community,

The Board of Directors of the SCCA would like to acknowledge the disruption caused by the recent temporary closure of the Cortes Island Playschool.

We know that for many families the playschool is essential childcare that allows parents to work, contribute to the community, and maintain stability in their daily lives.

We recognize that the sudden closure, with very little notice, has created real challenges for parents and caregivers.

We are truly sorry for the strain this has placed on families and we appreciate the patience and understanding many of you have shown.

The Board made the difficult decision to temporarily suspend the program due to an internal operational matter that required immediate attention.

As a registered charity and employer, the SCCA has legal and governance responsibilities that require confidentiality and careful process. For that reason we are not able to share specific details.

Our intention is to reopen the playschool as soon as it is possible to do so responsibly. The Board and Executive staff are actively working through the steps required to stabilize the program and support a smooth return to operations, and we have engaged an external consultant to support staff through this process.

This situation has also highlighted areas where our procedures and internal supports can be strengthened.

The Board is taking this seriously and will be reviewing our operational practices so that we are better prepared in the future and so that programs families rely on are more resilient when unexpected issues arise.

We deeply value the role the playschool plays in the life of this community. Supporting young children and families has long been an important part of SCCA’s work at Mansons Hall, and we remain committed to that role.

Below are responses to some of the questions we have heard from families.

Why was the playschool closed so suddenly?
The Board needed to respond quickly to an internal operational matter. Situations like this require organisations to act promptly while also following appropriate processes and maintaining confidentiality.

Is the playschool permanently closed?
No. The closure is temporary. The Board’s intention is to reopen the playschool once the necessary steps have been completed and the program can resume in a stable and well supported way.

When will the playschool reopen?
We are working toward reopening as soon as possible. While we cannot provide an exact date yet, restoring the program for families is a priority for the Board and the organisation.

What is SCCA doing moving forward?
In addition to addressing the immediate situation, the Board will be reviewing procedures and supports for the program to strengthen operational oversight, and program stability moving forward.

We care deeply about the children and families who rely on this program and about the role the playschool plays in our community. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work carefully toward reopening.

We will share updates as soon as we are able.

Sincerely,

Board of Directors Southern Cortes Community Association