The University of Louisville has announced it will end its management and financial support for the on-campus Early Learning Campus (ELC) effective June 30, a decision that has left parents, faculty, and staff in a state of shock and uncertainty. Citing budget concerns, the university's withdrawal from the nearly two-decade-long partnership affects approximately 140 children and 45 staff members.
The center, operated in collaboration with the nonprofit Family Scholar House, has been a vital resource not only for university employees but also for student parents and the wider Louisville community. Families now face the difficult task of securing new childcare arrangements in a competitive market.
Key Takeaways
- The University of Louisville will cease managing the Early Learning Campus on June 30 due to budget issues.
- The decision impacts around 140 enrolled children, including 38 from the Family Scholar House program, and 45 staff members.
- Faculty and parents describe the move as a significant loss of a high-quality, affordable, and diverse childcare option that was a key benefit of working at the university.
- Family Scholar House, which owns the building, is actively searching for a new partner to continue the childcare services.
A Sudden Announcement Shocks Families
The news was delivered to the campus community in a Feb. 16 email, which stated the decision “was not made lightly.” For many parents, the announcement was an unexpected blow. Many reported being on the center's waitlist for a year or more, a testament to its reputation in the city.
Remington Smith, an associate professor at UofL with two children at the ELC, described the center as a critical piece of infrastructure for working parents at the university. Both he and his wife are employed by UofL.
“This is the thing that allows parents to work at UofL,” Smith said. “Suddenly pulling the rug out from under us is just unacceptable.”
Smith indicated that parents are considering organizing to petition the university administration to reconsider its decision, arguing that such benefits are essential for attracting and retaining top talent.
The Impact on the University Community
The ELC was more than just a daycare; it was viewed by many as a cornerstone of the university's community support system. Tyler Fleming, an associate professor of Pan-African studies and history, enrolled his daughter at the center and frequently promoted it to prospective faculty members as a major perk of employment.
“When we got the email late last night, we were shocked and frankly deeply hurt by this,” Fleming stated. “Before this announcement, I would often tell people that the ELC and Family Scholar House are the two best things that UofL does.”
A Model of Inclusivity
A unique aspect of the Early Learning Campus was its diverse student body. By design, the center served children of university faculty, staff, and students, alongside residents of the Family Scholar House and members of the broader Louisville community. Parents said this created an inclusive and enriching environment that is difficult to find elsewhere.
Fleming emphasized the value of this diversity. “It has enhanced my daughter's life in so many ways, and the fact that the university's administration doesn't see the magic and power of the ELC and the relationship with Family Scholar House is really sad and troubling to me,” he added.
What Happens Next for the ELC?
While UofL is stepping away, the future of childcare at the location is not entirely closed. The building is owned by Family Scholar House, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting single-parent students. The organization is now tasked with finding a new operator to take over the program.
By the Numbers: The ELC Community
- ~140: Total children enrolled
- 45: Staff members employed
- 38: Children from Family Scholar House residents
- June 30: UofL's final day of management
Cathe Dykstra, President and CEO of Family Scholar House, confirmed that discussions with the university about this transition have been ongoing since November. She expressed appreciation for the long-standing partnership and affirmed her organization's commitment to the children it serves.
“We appreciate the partnership with UofL that laid the foundation for our children to succeed in education and become life-long learners,” Dykstra said in a statement. Her organization is now focused on securing a new partner to ensure programming continues seamlessly.
A Community Staple at Risk
The ripple effects of the university's decision were felt immediately. Parent Simone Sibley described a “completely shifted” and somber energy at the center the morning after the announcement. “It's a complete family there. There's so much love and there's so much consideration,” she said.
Although her own daughter is set to graduate from the program before the closure, Sibley expressed deep concern for her friends and fellow parents who are now scrambling to find new, high-quality care. She characterized the university's decision as abrupt and selfish.
“This is a staple in the community, and it has existed for so long that people's quality of lives will be forever shifted,” Sibley commented. The university has stated it will continue its collaboration with Family Scholar House in other capacities, but for now, the community is focused on the immediate future of its youngest members.