The USD 428 Education Foundation is excited to announce the launch of a capital campaign, "Building for the Future," aimed at supporting the expansion of Little Panthers Preschool. This initiative will support 13 preschool classrooms scheduled to open in August 2024, providing a quality preschool education for up to 288 students aged 3 and 4 years old.
The new location for Little Panthers Preschool, at 1809 24th St, will bring all USD 428 preschools together under one roof and add capacity to serve more students. The campaign underscores the commitment of the USD 428 Education Foundation to improve educational opportunities and support innovative ideas by investing in our youngest learners.
"Every child deserves a strong foundation for lifelong learning," said Kelsey Sciacca, president of the USD 428 Education Foundation. "With the Building for the Future campaign, we want to foster continuity and equality across all classrooms, providing teachers and students with furnishings and equipment that generate excitement for learning."
Intending to raise $150,000, the USD 428 Education Foundation has pledged to match the first $20,000 in donations to the Building to the Future Campaign, with a target date of March 1, 2024, to conclude the fundraising efforts. Donors will be recognized for their generosity on a donor wall proudly displayed in the building's lobby, and included in the grand opening celebrations in August.
“After a thoughtful inventory of our existing classrooms, we felt it was time for a fresh start for many of our classrooms that have seen decades of use,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 superintendent. “We will be matching the furnishings that were purchased for the three current Little Panthers classrooms in 2021 which are still in great shape. In addition to tables and chairs, classrooms will have learning ‘centers’ that include a kitchen, around-town carpet, pet vet center, art center, and more. More than play, these ‘centers’ complement the preschool curriculum and help students develop important social skills.”
The campaign invites community members, businesses, and philanthropists to contribute to the cause, emphasizing that every donation, regardless of size, will make a meaningful impact. Notably, a donation of $10,000 will sponsor an entire classroom, creating a lasting legacy for decades of learning.
"We believe that the future of our community begins with the education we provide to our youngest members. By supporting the Building for the Future campaign, you are investing in the growth and success of our children," added Sciacca.
For more information about the campaign, or to pledge, please visit https://tinyurl.com/428prek or contact education.foundation@usd428.net.