University News
WIU Officially Opens Early Learning Center
October 8, 2025
MOLINE, IL- In a ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 8, Western Illinois University officially opened the WIU Bilingual Early Learning and Family Center. The center is focused on early childhood education for students who are 15 months to five years old and is now enrolling for all classes.
"The WIU Early Learning Center is the culmination of a shared vision between WIU and the Moline community. The center provides educational opportunities for our youngest students and their families, while also creating space for experiential learning for WIU education students," WIU President Kristi Mindrup said.
The WIU Early Learning Center offers a Spanish dual language curriculum, with a majority of staff being bilingual in Spanish and English languages. The center provides a culturally and linguistically appropriate learning environment to all students. Every dollar goes back into the center to support better classrooms and learning activities, and to provide an educational space for young children.
"The WIU Bilingual Early Learning and Family Center is a place where all children can dream about a better future and achieve their goals," Eduardo Perez, director of the center said. "Thanks to the generosity and support of our community, our center is not a dream anymore, but a reality."
The WIU center works with organizations such as Preschool for All (PFA), Head Start, Early Head Start and the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which all help provide low-income families access to the quality care every child deserves. Enrollment is now open, and all are encouraged to apply.
"WIU is proud to offer engaging, high-quality, early learning to the community," Audrey Adamson, executive director of Outreach and Quad Cities Operations said. "Our current students are benefiting from outstanding educators, and we continue to invite more families to join us."
To learn more about the WIU Bilingual Early Learning Center, visit wiu.edu/qc/elc.
Posted By: Zachary Messersmith (ZD-Messersmith@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing
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