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Schools

Children Feel Safe and Cozy at Papoose Children's Center

Papoose Children's Center offers a full curriculum and individual attention with a lot of love.

Ms. Carol, who has been teaching kindergarten at for the last 29 years, knows they offer their little Indians something special.

“Although we have an excellent academic program, focusing on math, science, reading and social studies, we also offer a cozy and warm atmosphere where children feel safe and secure,” Ms. Carol said. “We really try to make it their second home.”

Maybe that’s why so many of her children return years later. Just this summer, one of the Papoose’s former students who is now in college, came to work at the center.

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“Our children make such special memories here, they often return to say hello,” Ms. Carol said. “And of course, they are always welcome to do that.”

Papoose offers everything a traditional school program would have -- individualized tutoring, recess and field trips -- but its emphasis is really on creating a welcoming environment for the children.

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“If your child needs care after the school hours end, a traditional program will usually lump all the students together in large a group,” Ms. Carol said. “Here, they get to stay in their own classroom, with their own friends. It’s all about security.”

Ms. Carol’s philosophy has definitely made an impact on many lives in Oak Lawn. Former students who recognize her about town often stop her when she is running errands.

“Just the other day, when I was walking the children back from the Farmers Market, an Oak Lawn police officer stopped and asked if I was his old kindergarten teacher. I can’t believe people remember me after all these years. That is definitely the most rewarding part of my job,” she said.

For the first time this fall, Papoose will be offering a half-day kindergarten from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., along with a full-day kindergarten with before- and afterschool childcare, from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“We feel this will better meet the needs of all our parents,” said Ms. Carol.  “We really encourage parents to come see what we’re all about, individualized attention and a whole lot of love.”

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