A free preschool is set to open in West Long Beach later this year to expand access to early childhood education for families in the area, city officials said.
The city has begun renovation efforts at the West Facilities Center, located at 2125 Santa Fe Ave., next to Admiral Kidd Park, for the new preschool. The site is estimated to open in September, according to a press release.
“Every child in Long Beach deserves access to high-quality early learning opportunities,” Mayor Rex Richardson said in a statement. “By bringing multiple supportive services together in one convenient location, we are expanding access to early education in West Long Beach while strengthening long-term support for children and families.”
This project is led by the Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with the Departments of Economic Development and Opportunity, Public Works, and Parks, Recreation and Marine. It supports the city’s Westside Promise Initiative – a 10-year community investment plan to address current and historic challenges facing West Long Beach.
Once open, the preschool will serve 37 children ages 2 to 5 with full- and partial-day dual-immersion programming in English and Spanish, according to the press release. Services will be provided at no cost to families, supported by the California Child Care and Development Fund and California State Preschool Program.
Renovations to the facility will include a new sprinkler system, upgrades to early childhood education learning spaces with new learning materials and room dividers, and replacement of the existing play yard with a new play structure, according to the press release.
West Long Beach has a significant shortage of licensed childcare, with existing providers able to serve less than 30% of local demand, officials said. The new preschool, which will be operated by Un Mundo de Amigos Preschool, will help fill this gap by expanding access to early learning and care for families in the area.
“This project reflects the dedication and collaboration of many partners who share a commitment to children and families in Long Beach,” Laurie Petersen, founder and president of Un Mundo de Amigos, said in a statement. “The improvements to this space will have a lasting impact, creating a safe, welcoming environment where young children can learn, grow and feel supported.”
The facility will be co-located with existing services, including a TCC Family Health clinic and a Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) office, supporting children’s health and development while helping parents pursue employment and education opportunities.
The renovation project was approved by the City Council in September 2024, according to the press release. Since then, the city has completed site evaluations, permitting and design planning. The preschool renovations will also be overseen by Un Mundo de Amigos.
“I’m proud to see another initiative bringing vital resources and opportunities to the children of West Long Beach,” Vice Mayor and Seventh District Councilmember Robert Uranga said in a statement. “Investments like this directly support our Westside Promise and help ensure our youngest residents have safe, supportive spaces where they can learn and grow.”
The $2 million project is funded by the Long Beach Recovery Act, with additional support from Measure A, and contributions from Un Mundo de Amigos, officials said.
“By investing in early childhood education alongside health and nutrition services, we are creating a supportive environment that addresses the holistic needs of children and families,” Alison King, director of the health department, said in a statement. “This remodel represents a meaningful step toward improving long-term health, educational outcomes and economic stability in West Long Beach.”
Families seeking options before the new preschool opens are encouraged to explore available programs through the Long Beach Early learning Hub at TheHubLB.org, which connects residents to early childhood education opportunities across the city and will include future enrollment information for Un Mundo de Amigos Preschool.