Crittenton Center is proud to share exciting news for families across Plymouth County and Siouxland. Through two newly awarded Iowa Early Childhood Continuum of Care Grants, the organization will significantly expand access to high-quality, full-day preschool and childcare services in Le Mars and Sioux City, beginning August 2025.
These grants strengthen Crittenton Center’s mission to shelter, educate, and empower children, individuals, and families by removing barriers to early learning and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Le Mars: A Seamless Preschool & Childcare Partnership
In partnership with the Le Mars Community School District (LMCSD), Crittenton Center will launch a full-day model that blends the Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program (SWVPP) with wraparound childcare at the Le Mars Child Development Center (601 12th Street SW).
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LMCSD-certified teachers will provide preschool instruction.
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Crittenton Center will offer childcare before and after preschool hours.
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Transportation between preschool sites and the childcare center will be provided by LMCSD.
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Reduced, income-based rates will be available, ensuring affordability for families of all backgrounds.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive,” said Kim Scorza, CEO of Crittenton Center.
Sioux City: Expanding Full-Day Options Across the City
Through a partnership with the Sioux City Community School District (SCCSD), families will now have access to full-day care at three Sioux City locations:
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Stella Sanford – West (1724 Geneva Street)
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Stella Sanford – East (6100 Morningside Avenue)
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Liberty Preschool (1623 Rebecca Street)
The program will provide at least 50 hours of weekly care, blending preschool instruction from certified teachers with nurturing, full-day childcare provided by Crittenton Center’s trained educators. Families will also benefit from income-based rates to ensure inclusivity and access for all.
“This grant represents a major step forward in ensuring children and families have the resources they need to thrive,” said Scorza.
Building on a Legacy of Service
In 2024 alone, Crittenton Center served more than 1,200 children and families across its six locations. Both new initiatives build on this legacy, offering consistent, affordable, and high-quality early childhood services while supporting workforce participation for parents.
The Le Mars Child Development Center is also actively engaged in Iowa’s IQ4K Quality Rating and Improvement System and participates in T.E.A.C.H. and WAGE$ programs to support teacher education and retention.
Looking Ahead
Enrollment details for both communities will be shared through district communications, community events, and Crittenton Center’s social media channels. Families seeking more information can visit www.crittentoncenter.org.
