New Child Development Center expands capacity by 150


A new classroom inside the Child Development Center I after its grand opening Nov. 14, 2011, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. More than 90 people attended the grand opening of this new facility, which is capable of supporting 150 children. (U.S Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephanie Rubi / Released)

New Child Development Center expands capacity by 150

by Benjamin Newell
Nellis Public Affairs

11/16/2011 - NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- The new Child Development Center had its grand opening Nov. 14, 2011, on Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.

The center will provide child care services for 150 children who range from one to five years old. Col. Steven Garland, 99th Air Base Wing commander, along with representatives of both Nevada U.S. senators and two U.S. congressmembers from Nevada attended the opening.

During the grand opening, Kurtland Banfield's mother watched as the three-year-old CDC student recited the pledge of allegiance for the first time in front of 90 spectators.

"Kurtland has been practicing the pledge all week with me and his dad," said Shannon Banfield, wife of a fuels specialist with 99th Logistics and Readiness Squadron. "We're so proud that he's in the first class attending this new CDC; it looks like a great facility."

The first class of 24 students, including Kurtland Banfield, spent the day at the new building following the ribbon cutting and opening ceremony. The entire group of 150 children began attending classes at the new CDC Nov. 15, 2011.

In addition to the fully-outfitted classrooms built to specifications for each age group, the CDC staff has access to two training rooms and a spacious break room.

"Communication between the trainers is a big deal," said Jenny Morris, CDC training technician. "Getting together in the lounge or in a training environment really helps us create the best classroom environment."

A slew of flat-screen television monitors in the lobby are a significant aspect of the CDC facility. The six screens are wired to every classroom, allowing employees and parents to watch a classroom without disturbing the care providers or children. Down the hall, an all-electric kitchen follows U.S. Department of Agriculture "My Plate" recommendations to provide healthy meals high in grains, fiber and other nutritional foods proven to benefit developing children. This facility produces approximately 600 meals a day.

The entire CDC cost $7.3 million and was funded by the American Recovery and Re-investment Act. As part of a master plan, the CDC is located within sight of family homes on the north side of Nellis.

For more information about the new CDC, contact Barbara Bettens at 702-652-4417 or Vicki Silva at 702-652-9730.