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WIU and Moline-Coal Valley School District Announce Lincoln-Irving Transition to WIU-QC Campus

April 1, 2026

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL — The Moline-Coal Valley School District, in partnership with Western Illinois University-Quad Cities, will temporarily relocate Lincoln-Irving Elementary School to the WIU-QC campus beginning Tuesday, April 7, following Spring Break.

"This move is more than just a change of location; it reflects a shared partnership with students, families and the future of education in the Quad Cities," Audrey Adamson, WIU executive director of Quad Cities Operations, said. "We look forward to welcoming students from Lincoln-Irving to our Riverfront campus."

Approximately 340 students and 55 staff members will move into Buildings A and B at WIU-QC, where they will finish the 2025–26 school year and remain for the full 2026–27 school year.

Relocating in early spring gives students, staff and families time to adjust before the fall school year. This timeline allows teachers and administrators to establish routines and classroom structures and to finalize logistics for transportation, campus operations, recess areas, lunch schedules, parent drop-off and pick-up procedures, visitor check-in processes and MetroLINK coordination. These preparations will help ensure students begin the 2026–27 school year in a stable, well-organized environment.

Buildings A and B at WIU-QC are already set up for classroom use and are considered move-in ready. The district will provide traditional classroom furniture and the spaces meet district standards for safety and technology.

Students will have access to classrooms, eating spaces, art and music rooms, physical education areas, library space, staff meeting rooms and indoor recess areas. Minor enhancements, including fencing for an outdoor play area, will further adapt the campus for elementary students' needs.

Educational programming will continue without disruption. The WIU-QC site will offer full K–5 instruction, including Lincoln-Irving's dual-language program, specialty education services and enrichment opportunities such as art, music, physical education, extracurricular activities and student clubs.

The April 2026 relocation also supports the broader community. Moving in the spring gives the construction team a two-month head start on the future combined Lincoln-Irving/Willard school, increasing the likelihood the new facility will open on schedule in August 2027.

"This is an incredible example of local organizations coming together to serve children and families," said Rachel Savage, superintendent of the Moline-Coal Valley School District. "By partnering with Western Illinois University, we are keeping resources in our community, protecting tax dollars and ensuring students have the learning environment they deserve during this important transition."

Savage also highlighted the importance of community partners, including MetroLINK, whose support and transportation coordination make the relocation possible.

Looking ahead, this transition marks an important step toward a historic milestone. In August 2027, Lincoln-Irving Elementary students will join Willard Elementary students at the newly renovated Robert Ontiveros Elementary School, Home of the Owls. This move will honor the 127-year legacy of Willard Elementary School while opening a new chapter for students and families in the district.

"WIU values our long-standing partnership with the Moline School District. As a former Lincoln Irving student, I am especially excited to welcome students and educators to the WIU-Quad Cities campus," WIU President Kristi Mindrup said. "We look forward to collaborative opportunities through our shared proximity."

More information will be provided soon.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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