3/5/2024 -- For more than a decade, hundreds of children have been on wait lists each year to enroll in Parkway’s early childhood and preschool programs. Thanks to voters, the district has plans to provide relief. 

In the fall of 2026, more than 300 early learners in Parkway will have access to a new and additional Early Childhood Center with outdoor learning programming and space. The new building is planned for a site on Wren Avenue in Manchester, between Wren Hollow Elementary and Southwest Middle schools. 

The estimated $32 million facility is being designed to accommodate all children regardless of ability. It will include a nature path and play space accessible to the neighborhood.

“We are excited to meet the needs of more Parkway families,” said Elena Amirault, Parkway’s director of early learning. “This new center will give quality learning opportunities to hundreds more of our youngest students each year.”

In 2021, Parkway conducted a demographic and market study to determine if a new center was warranted. It found that the greatest area of need is the southern part of the district – the 63021 zip code. The new building will have 13 classrooms plus feature an outdoor play and learning space. The location will provide the most outdoor green space of any other preschool program in our district.

An informational meeting about the future center is planned for Tuesday, March 26 from 6-7:30 p.m. at Southwest Middle School, 701 Wren Avenue, Manchester, 63021. 

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