Five Learning Years gets new program director

St Johns County Education Foundation Executive Director, Donna Lueders, announced to Historic City News the addition of Mary Alice (Schweickert) Hayes; program director for the organization’s Five Learning Years program.

Five Learning Years coordinates with various groups and agencies to provide assistance and direction to families with children ages 0-5 years to ensure children arrive at kindergarten academically, socially, emotionally and physically ready to learn.

“In her new role, Mary will assume responsibilities in development, management and budgeting for the program,” Lueders told local reporters. “Her husband of 17-years, Kevin, is a teacher and coach with the St Johns County School District.”

Hayes was previously employed at Salve Regina University in Rhode Island as the Director of Housing, Academic Advisor, and as an Assistant Dean of Students. In addition to her background in higher education, she more recently did freelance editing and transcribing, while being a stay-at-home mom to her three children — Stella, Jack and Luke.

Hayes holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a Master of Arts degree in Human Resource Management, with an emphasis on Holistic Counseling.

“I hope to make a positive contribution to the Five Learning Years program, and I look forward to helping it grow in St Johns County,” Hayes said.