ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS (July 27, 2026) — YWCA Quad Cities is expanding its Early Learning Academy by opening an additional preschool classroom and is now accepting applications for fall enrollment.

Through collaboration with the Rock Island County Regional Office of Education, the new classroom will operate as a Preschool for All (PFA) program, offering high-quality early-childhood education to children aged three to five. Designed to help children enter kindergarten confident and prepared, the program combines experienced educators, an evidence-based curriculum, and strong family engagement to build the academic, social, and emotional skills children need to succeed.

Research consistently shows that children who participate in high-quality preschool programs are more likely to enter kindergarten ready to learn, develop stronger literacy and math skills, and experience long-term academic success. By investing in early learning, YWCA Quad Cities is helping children build a strong foundation while empowering families with access to affordable, high-quality education.

The Preschool for All program is offered at no cost to families whose children attend the AM session (9-11:30AM). Families needing full-day care may qualify for financial assistance, making quality early education accessible to more working parents.

To help families learn more about the program, YWCA Quad Cities will host a Preschool Open House on Wednesday, August 5, 5-6:30PM. Families will have the opportunity to tour the Early Learning Academy, meet staff, learn about the Preschool for All program, ask questions, and receive enrollment packets. The open house is free and open to families interested in enrolling children ages three to five for the upcoming school year.

"Every child deserves the opportunity to begin kindergarten with confidence, curiosity, and the skills they need to thrive," said Tomi Coronado, Director of the Early Learning Academy at YWCA Quad Cities.

"Expanding our Preschool for All program allows us to serve more families while providing children with a nurturing environment where they can learn, grow, and develop a lifelong love of learning. When we invest in our youngest learners, we're investing in stronger families and a stronger community."

YWCA Quad Cities' Early Learning Academy provides a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where children learn through hands-on experiences, purposeful play, and meaningful relationships with caring educators. The program focuses on preparing children academically while fostering confidence, independence, and social-emotional development.

Families interested in enrolling their child or learning more about YWCA's preschool program are encouraged to attend the Open House, visit ywcaqc.org, or contact Tomi Coronado at tcoronado@qcywca.org to schedule a tour.

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