WFU child care center planned to open in September

February 26, 2024

Image credit: CJMW Architecture

After a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) process, Wake Forest University has selected KinderCare Learning Companies for Employers to operate a child care and early education center in the University Corporate Center (UCC). The center, “KinderCare at Wake Forest University,” is projected to open in September, dependent upon timely completion of construction and center licensing. Beginning Mar. 6, interested families may contact KinderCare directly to speak with an enrollment specialist and to discuss the registration process.

KinderCare has more than 50 years of experience providing early childhood care and education and has the most nationally-accredited early learning centers of any private provider in the country. KinderCare also has experience partnering with higher education institutions to provide employer-sponsored child care and early education opportunities. 

“Beyond offering a trusted space for early education, this facility reinforces our dedication to prioritizing work-life integration and wellbeing for our campus community,” said President Susan R. Wente. 

“Child care support is vital for every working parent’s ability to fully participate in the workforce,” said Dan Figurski, President of KinderCare for Employers and Champions. “Wake Forest University leaders recognize this and want to support their employees with the establishment of an employer-sponsored child care center. We’re honored to work with Wake Forest to help them as they help their working parents.”

With the establishment of this child care center, the University recognizes that increasing the availability of high-quality child care options in Winston-Salem can be an effective recruitment tool for top University talent. “This facility reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the needs of our faculty, staff, and students,” said Provost Michele Gillespie. 

The center is designed for 5-Star NC quality-rated licensure and NAEYC accreditation. It will serve 120 children in eight classrooms, from 6 weeks old through 5 years old. Operating hours will be from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, year-round, with holidays coinciding with the primary University holiday schedule. 

“Construction is well underway and we will be offering site tours to showcase the new facility once completed,” said Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Jacqueline A. Travisano. “We will provide project updates to faculty and staff as we reach key milestones.”

Information about priority enrollment groups, tuition rates, and frequently asked questions is now available at hr.wfu.edu/kindercareatwfu. Contact information for KinderCare at Wake Forest University will be added to this webpage on Wednesday, March 6; at that time interested families should contact KinderCare directly using the online contact form or phone number to speak with an enrollment specialist and to discuss the registration process. To learn more about KinderCare, visit kindercare.com.