Teacher Kid Camp: Valuable for my Family and Career
by Arielle Downing, Special Education Teacher
Teacher Kid Camp an Incredible Resource
Having access to the Teacher Kid Camp provided by Parents for Public Education has been an incredible resource and support for me as a teacher in [Friendswood ISD]. The camp, which offers free childcare on Professional Development (PD) days when I am required to be at work but my children are not in school, has alleviated a major source of stress for me and many other working parents.
Professional Development days are essential for my continued growth as a special education teacher. They allow me to collaborate with colleagues, stay up to date with best practices, and implement new strategies that ultimately benefit my students. However, these days can create a real hardship for parents, particularly those of us with young children who are not yet able to stay home alone. In previous years, before I had access to the Parents for Public Education camp, I would have to find care for my two children, often at a significant cost. The local daycare charges a $50 drop-in fee per child, which meant I was looking at $100 every PD day—times thirteen days throughout the school year, that’s $1,300 just to ensure my kids were safe and cared for while I fulfilled my professional responsibilities.
The local daycare charges a $50 drop-in fee per child . . . $1,300 just to ensure my kids were safe and cared for while I fulfilled my professional responsibilities.
This expense is not something my family could easily absorb. Teaching is a rewarding profession, but it’s no secret that it does not come with a high salary, and both my husband and I work for the district. The availability of free, high-quality childcare on these days has lifted a tremendous financial burden from our shoulders. More importantly, it allows me to focus on my professional development without worrying about my children’s wellbeing.
Teacher Kid Camp's Impact on Educator Families
The camp itself has been a positive experience for my kids, too. It’s not just a place to “watch” them—it’s a place where they can engage in enriching activities, socialize with other children, and enjoy their day in a safe and supportive environment. Knowing that they are not just safe, but happy and engaged, gives me peace of mind and allows me to be fully present during my PD sessions.
This service reflects a deep understanding of what working parents, particularly educators, really need. It communicates that our time is valued, that our families matter, and that our community stands behind us.
Parents for Public Education is doing more than offering childcare—they are making it possible for teachers like me to continue growing in our profession without sacrificing the care and happiness of our children. I truly cannot overstate how valuable that is to my family and my professional life.
Arielle Downing, Special Education Teacher
Arielle is a special education teacher in Friendswood ISD whose spouse is also a district employee. She is also a mother of two whose kids have enjoyed their time at Teacher Kid Camp while Arielle was able to focus on doing her job well.
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