It is never too early for families of very young children to start thinking about their future schooling and needs, according to staff at Ohio County Schools.

The school district wants to remind the community of an upcoming event during which the county’s youngest children and their families can come meet their future teachers and educators.

Ohio County Schools will host its first “Tiny Patriots” program from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Jan. 11 at the Ohio County Public Library, and it is open to children ages 0-4 and their families.

The goal of the program is for families with children about to enter the school district to become acquainted with Ohio County Schools personnel and staff. At the same time, the families also will get the opportunity to learn about local agencies providing services that could be useful to them, explained Karin Butyn, public relations director for Ohio County Schools.

“We would like to extend an invite for families to come take a step into the Ohio County Schools early ed program in a way that is exciting for students, and benefits families,” she said.

Among the organizations slated to participate are WVU Medicine, WIC, West Virginia Birth to Three, the Wheeling YMCA Wheeling, Genesis and Oglebay institute. Additional groups also will be included, according to Butyn.

The service providers will be downstairs at the library, while various activities for young children are scheduled for upstairs.

“People can come learn about early education opportunities in Ohio County schools, as well as community resources that can benefit their family,” Butyn said. “It’s also a chance to come have fun during a dreary winter night. There will be little kids’ activities made just for them.”

Registration is not required, but t-shirts will be given to the children and it helps in making certain enough of the correct sizes are available, she explained.

So far, about 20 families have registered, according to Butyn.

“We anticipate more, and we would like to see as many as possible,” she said. “We want to learn from our families and give our families and littlest learners the opportunity to meet with us.

“We appreciate the Ohio County Library allowing us to use their space, and for working with us for an exciting event,” Butyn added.