Middle Village, Queens – The Christ the King Community Daycare and Preschool, a fixture in the neighborhood for over 30 years, announced it will close permanently in July 2027. The decision affects more than 200 families who rely on its infant‑to‑preschool services.
Parents voice concerns
Parents expressed deep worry about the loss of reliable childcare. Katie Johnston, whose daughter is enrolled, said, “If we don’t have reliable childcare, how do we work, what do we do?” She highlighted the center’s unique offering of seats for children from six weeks to five years, noting that “finding infant care is very difficult.” Johnston also stressed the importance of after‑hours care, adding, “If I go to a 3K program next year and they don’t have after‑hours, I can’t get my kid at 2 in the afternoon.”
Reason for closure
The program is run by New Generation Kids and operates inside Christ the King High School. Education director Dorothy Wagner sent a letter to families last week explaining that her upcoming retirement and a “difficult and mutual decision” led to the closure. Wagner wrote, “I want to share this decision with you as soon as possible, and well in advance to help ensure you have time to make the best arrangements for you and your family.”
Community response
Local officials and community members are already looking for solutions. Councilman Phil Wong urged that efforts be made to keep the facility operating, emphasizing the vital role it plays for working families. Meanwhile, Middle Village Prep, a charter school also located on the campus, plans to expand and has offered to hire the daycare’s staff, though parents remain uncertain about the availability of space for their children.
Next steps
A community hearing is scheduled for Monday, giving families a forum to ask questions and explore alternatives. Parents are actively seeking other childcare providers, but many fear that nearby centers lack sufficient capacity to accommodate the displaced families.
The closure underscores the broader challenge of affordable, reliable childcare in Queens, especially for families with infants and toddlers. As the community awaits the hearing’s outcome, parents hope for a solution that preserves access to essential early‑education services.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
