Meeting Pre-K-12 Needs with Thoughtful Building from Active Listening

TL;DR

The demand for pre-kindergarten and before/after-school care is growing, but most schools lack the facilities to meet it. Only 42% of schools nationwide currently offer these programs. St. Matthew's Catholic School in Campbellsport, WI, expanded with new infant and pre-K classrooms to bridge this gap. Thoughtful design, community fundraising and collaborative construction made it possible.

🔗 Learn more about education construction at C.D. Smith

Pre-K play-based learning classroom with toys, alphabet wall, and activity centers

Why Pre-K and Child Care Spaces Matter

The need for before- and after-school care and pre-kindergarten (pre-K) programs continues to rise. Yet, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), only 42% of schools can accommodate families seeking these services. That leaves a wide gap between demand and availability.

Communities are stepping up through fundraising and referendums to make sure families have options that support both student learning and family schedules.

Elementary classroom with students seated at desks, interactive board, and wall displays

Case Study: St. Matthew's Child Care

As enrollment grew at St. Matthew's in Campbellsport, WI, many families struggled to find sibling care and pre-K programs. To meet this need, the school expanded by adding four new classrooms designed specifically for infants and young pre-K students.

Child-friendly restroom with colorful tile walls designed for independence

Each classroom was intentionally designed to support different developmental stages, with:

Child-friendly restrooms for toilet training and independent use
Handwashing stations and snack areas to promote hygiene and nutrition
Nap zones for rest and relaxation
Reading nooks and quiet spaces to encourage early literacy
Play-based learning areas integrated with structured teaching methods

Crib area designed for infant nap time at St. Matthews child care addition

“C.D. Smith was more than just a general contractor on this project—they were a partner. Actively listening during the planning phases of construction and renovation, and offering innovative solutions that aligned with budget and project goals."
— Joan Schlaefer, Principal, St. Matthew's Catholic School

Key Takeaways

Pre-K demand is outpacing availability: Families need more options than most schools can currently provide, and St. Matthew's expanded to meet rising demand.
Design is about more than space: Child-friendly restrooms, nap areas and literacy zones directly support childhood development and family routines.
Collaboration is essential: Successful projects are built on listening to families, schools and community partners. C.D. Smith aligned construction with educational goals.

🔗 Explore more about K-12 construction projects and how schools are shaping future-ready learning.

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Date: Spring/Summer 2025 | Author: Molly Haack

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