Bruin Beginnings Daycare Names Lead Teacher; State Vouchers Could Expand Program

From the Blackford County Schools Board meeting on April 21, 2026

Blackford County Schools' planned employee daycare, Bruin Beginnings, has named Stacey Batten as its lead teacher. Batten is currently a preschool teacher in the district. A meeting for interested employees was held in the designated room at Blackford Primary School.

A significant development could reshape the program's scope: Governor Holcomb announced the return of CCDF (Child Care Development Fund) vouchers last week. The federally funded program helps qualifying families access free childcare. If Bruin Beginnings achieves regulated childcare status — which the district plans to pursue — qualifying employees could enroll their children at no cost, with voucher funds flowing to the district. The superintendent noted the program "might not start as small as we thought."

The Community Foundation's next grant cycle is not until late summer or early fall, so the district is prioritizing some startup costs now. Staff are working on grant funding for outdoor play space equipment. The target opening is August 1 for the 2026-27 school year.

The board approved Bruin Beginnings on March 17 at a cost of $30 per day per child on a 185-day calendar, with startup costs of roughly $8,000.

Source: YouTube transcript — Blackford County - School Board Meeting - April 21, 2026

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.