ONEONTA – On Saturday, March 28, Springbrook will hold its fourth annual Gala event at the Otesaga Hotel in Cooperstown, and this year, the proceeds will benefit the Kids Unlimited Preschool program.

Kids Unlimited is one of the only integrated pre-school programs in the area, serving both typical functioning and special needs students. “They students learn from each other,” said Administrative Assistant Jamie Waters. “Children have no apprehension to students with differences.”

Preschool Director Kelly Meyers explained that Springbrook’s program is made up of three classrooms, two on the main campus and one in downtown Oneonta. “We’re now serving students from Otsego and Delaware counties, but we have served Chenango County in the past as well,” Meyers said.

The program is a multi-age setting for children from 3 to 5 years of age. “We teach to each child’s developmental level and try to get all of the students ready for their kindergarten year.

“This is the only integrated program in Otsego County,” Meyers said. “I’m very excited that the gala will be able to benefit this program this year.”

Meyers explained that while the students without disabilities are enrolled on a tuition basis, funds for the special needs students come from the county of residence, with some money reimbursed by the New York State Education Department. “Everyone in education is nervous about the budget over the next few years. We depend on financial support to keep our doors open,” Meyers said.