MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A major expansion of early childhood services is coming to Reno County as Little Hawks prepares to open a new childcare center designed to serve more local families and help meet growing demand.
Leaders with the Little Hawks Early Childhood Program, part of USD 308, announced the new facility at 2810 North Adams is nearing completion, with an opening expected in the coming weeks pending final certification.
The new center will significantly increase capacity, growing from about 30 children to approximately 84, more than doubling the program’s ability to serve families across the community.
Little Hawks provides services for pregnant women and children from birth to age five, including home visiting, childcare, and preschool programming. Program leaders say the expansion is aimed at both access and quality.
“Our mission is educating and empowering every Little Hawk for life,” said Melissa Starks. “We collaborate with families and focus on helping children succeed while providing quality care and education.”
The new facility features large, intentionally designed classrooms and an outdoor playground space built to support early learning and development. Officials say the center emphasizes curriculum-based instruction, meaning children are actively engaged in structured learning throughout the day.
The center will operate Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., accommodating a wide range of working families.
Demand for childcare in Hutchinson has been a persistent challenge in recent years, often cited alongside housing and workforce needs as barriers to growth. Program leaders say this expansion is part of a broader community effort to address that gap.
“We’re really excited to be part of what’s happening in Hutchinson,” staff said. “The community has come together to make sure families have what they need for childcare.”
Enrollment is already underway, though space remains limited. Families must complete an application through the district’s early childhood website to be placed on a waiting list. Applications remain active for one year, and families are encouraged to apply early — even during pregnancy — due to high demand.
The program offers multiple payment options, including free childcare for qualifying families through various funding sources, as well as private-pay rates. Current weekly costs are approximately $160 for younger children and $140 for older children, though those rates may be adjusted over time.
In addition to expanding services, Little Hawks is also hiring staff ahead of the opening. Officials say they are seeking full-time assistant teachers, with starting pay at $14.75 per hour, along with a part-time family support worker.
A ribbon-cutting and open house are planned in the near future, giving community members an opportunity to tour the facility and meet staff before the center officially opens.
Officials say the expansion represents a critical step in supporting working families and strengthening early childhood education in Reno County.