The New York State Legislature has approved two separate $50,000 legislative initiative budget items to assist Syosset-based Variety Pre-Schooler's Workshop (VPSW) in qualifying for a child care license for a top quality child care program. One initiative was sponsored by Senator Carl L. Marcellino, of the Fifth Senate District (R-Syosset). The other initiative was sponsored by Assemblyman David Sidikman, of the 13th Assembly District (D-Old Bethpage).

Marcellino has been a supporter of many of the programs at VPSW, especially the Sunday Respite Program. This service, created to help the family of a disabled child, enables parents to drop off their children on Sunday to participate in recreational activities. VPSW honored Marcellino as a "Champion for Children" for his help.

Sidikman, a longtime advocate for children and families, brought the need for funding the VPSW day care center to Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

"We sincerely thank our caring legislators," said Judith S. Bloch, founder and president/CEO of VPSW. "Through their efforts, we have advanced our plans for a child care program that is run by experts in early childhood development."

A series of stringent regulations must be met to qualify for a license to run such a facility. The legislative funds are being applied to upgrade the agency's sprinkler system in the 22,000-square-foot original part of its building.

VPSW is widely acclaimed for its innovative programs for young children with disabilities, its national research and professional training. In fact, VPSW operates the only preschool for young children with disabilities on Long Island honored by the New York State Education Department as a "Sharing Success" validated program, which means that its method and curricula are recommended for use by other early childhood educators. Founded in 1966, VPSW was one of the first schools in the northeast to focus on young children with learning, language, and behavior problems, including autism, and their families.