Shoot for the Moon #9

We toured SFTM #9 yesterday 8/25/25 and were overall impressed by what we saw. Unfortunately this location is further than we’d like to drive each day (for Shaw AFB workers, it’s about a 27 min drive). Here’s what we saw and some of the information we received: Pros: - entrance: locked unless buzzed in (great safety feature) - indoor playground equipment similar to fast food playgrounds right at the front that compensates for the lack of an appropriate outdoor playground typically found at daycare/schools - large classrooms (3 in total not including the afterschool classroom) - after school program: transport provided via school busses from schools in the area - shoes: closed toed not mandatory (love this as a girl mom who’s kiddo prefers sandals) -large infant room (much appreciate considering other daycares in the area have quite small infant rooms) -Infant room (didn’t catch her name) and 4 year old classroom teachers (Mrs. Stephanie?) seemed nice (it was nap time; did not interact with any of the others teachers) Cons (but not necessarily deal breakers): -small outdoor space: space directly outside of the infant room is a small turfed patio area at the back parking lot area. It’s “fenced” off/closed in with an iron rod type fence. Looks to be appropriate for only infants but were told the bigger kids also go out there. (See included picture) -No website: when asked, director mentioned they haven’t gotten to it (understandable, but worth getting to so that useful information is provided to parents new to the area); Mentioned a Facebook page but said that it wasn’t kept updated -No security cameras: when asked, director mentioned having 1 camera but that if it was something parents were concerned with, they’d look into getting them installed. All in all, our favorite location in the Sumter area (when considering both Archway and Raising a village Academy).

Do NOT Bring your child here!!!

Call to schedule a tour for an infant I was told that they were full so I asked to put my name on a waiting list then I was told they don’t have a waiting list that I would have to wait until my baby was born and then the young lady proceeded to say they did have a waiting list, but it was really long and that they were short staffed And the waiting list is still not an option because they no longer offer awaiting list because when people put their names on the waiting list, they never come or call back. This is really sad for this facility to be a new childcare center.

The employees, and director are exemplary and loving!! The indoor playground just adds the love for your chi d's care