Parents as Teachers (PAT) is a nationally honored program offered to all families in the Meramec Valley R-III School District. It is a free, voluntary parent and child early education service. Parents with children from prenatal to age five are eligible. The program includes developmental screenings, home visits, group meetings, playgroups, and a referral network.

The early years of life are critical for optimal development and provide the foundation for success in school, and in life and parents are their children's first and most influential teachers.

Working under the guidance of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), the Early Childhood Development Act (ECDA), Parents as Teachers National Office, and the Meramec Valley R-III School District, PAT services all district residents from birth to age 5.

It is the mission of the Parents as Teachers Program to provide the information, support, and encouragement parents need to help their children develop optimally during the crucial early years of life.

The work of Parents as Teachers is grounded in these basic beliefs:

• Parents are their children’s first and most influential teachers.
  

• The early years of a child’s life are critical for optimal development and provide the foundation for success in school and life.
  

• Established and emerging research should be the foundation of parent education and family support, curricula, training, materials, and services.
  

• All young children and their families deserve the same opportunities to succeed, regardless of any demographic, geographic, or economic considerations.
  

• An understanding and appreciation of the history and traditions of diverse cultures are essential in serving families.

Doris Hoffman Early Learning Center
228 Indian Pride Dr.
Pacific, MO 63069

PHONE:  636-271-1464
FAX: 636-271-1456