SPOKANE, Wash. — The City of Spokane and Spokane Public Schools are partnering to place affordable early learning programs inside neighborhood school buildings, with the pilot set to launch in fall 2026.
The school district is providing space at Balboa Elementary, Whitman Elementary, and the Garland Center, while the city identifies and contracts with qualified childcare providers to operate there.
“Access to affordable childcare is a critical need in Spokane,” Mayor Lisa Brown said. “This pilot is an exciting first step toward what we hope will become a scalable model that expands access to early learning opportunities across neighborhoods throughout our city.”
Superintendent Dr. Adam Swinyard said the program could reshape childcare in the region for years to come. “By expanding access to high-quality childcare and early learning close to home, we are giving every child the connection, support, and opportunities they need for a strong start and a brighter future.”
The city plans to issue a formal Request for Proposals to expand the program into additional schools and neighborhoods. Details on provider selection, timelines, and family enrollment will be announced in the coming months.
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