Our area in Sullivan County has never had a before/after school program or even a childcare center nearby. Working parents are having to make drastic changes for childcare and several arrangements just for their child to attend school. A program called Kids Like Us has recently opened at an old middle school, that is now called the Impact Community Center. This has been a breath of fresh air for the community with knowing we can take our children to a safe and fun environment, while parents can maintain a job to take care of a household. Kids Like Us specializes in special needs children as well and that is nearly impossible for a parent to be able to work without that kind of care. This program has worked diligently in getting this program ready and has had to pass inspections, receive certifications, etc to be kid ready. The week before school started, the director met with the school board to present this program and ask permission for a Sullivan County school bus to pick and drop students off. The school board denied access to a school bus, stating that it was a liability. Recently school has started and this has left many parents frantic, trying to find a way for before and after school care for their child. I am one of those parents who depended wholeheartedly for this program to open. We never fathomed that a bus would not be able to drop students off there, especially if parents give permission. The program is working on alternatives and of course that takes time, more certifications, and licensing. I am starting this petition to stress how much our community needs this and how much a school bus to be able to pick and drop off students would help tremendously.  At least temporarily, until the program can find an alternative. I am wanting to present this to the school board physically and I feel like the more support I get, the better chance we will have. Please sign this petition and help stressed out, working parents just trying to keep their job!