Parkland College board votes to close Child Development Center by June 30

The Parkland College Board of Trustees voted Tuesday to close the Parkland Child Development Center by June 30, citing staffing shortages and budget deficits. The Early Childhood Education program is not affected.

Brick wall with the sign 'Parkland College Child Development Center' on a brick building, with a small flowering shrub in front.

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CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — The Parkland College Board of Trustees voted Tuesday to enact a phased closure of the Parkland Child Development Center, with operations ending by June 30, 2026.

The board’s decision follows an administrative recommendation citing ongoing operational challenges, staffing shortages, and budget deficits. The center has served children and families since opening in 1993.

College leadership emphasized that the closure does not affect Parkland’s Early Childhood Education academic program, which continues to maintain strong enrollment. ECE students complete practicum experiences with community childcare providers. The college said it will support affected families in finding community-based childcare options and will work with affected staff on employment opportunities in accordance with collective bargaining agreements.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the upcoming closure of the Parkland Child Development Center,” the college said in a statement. “Since opening in 1993, the PCDC has served generations of children, families, and Parkland students. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve the community in this capacity throughout the years. Parkland College remains committed to preparing the next generation of teachers and directors through our Early Childhood Education academic program and continued partnerships with childcare providers throughout District 505.”