College of the Desert sees growing need for affordable childcare for student parents
Kendall Flynn
INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) – College of the Desert is announcing its Indio Child Development Center is now open for enrollment after seeing a growing need for childcare services in the student community.
Officials said the center is “cost-effective” and “high-quality” childcare that student parents need as they navigate classes and studying. The center serves 80 children, ages two to five, and has 45 staff members, and doubles as a training ground for students in COD’s early education programs.
Hundred of students studying to be future teachers get the opportunity to be in a classroom for hands-on training and foster a “symbiotic relationship” according to officials.
The building originally opened in January 2024, but officials were unable to host children just yet as they were waiting for health and safety licenses.
The 18,000 square foot building includes toddler and preschool classrooms, support spaces, observation areas and classrooms for early education. It also includes 7,000 square feet of play yards.
The center will give priority to any student parents in need of childcare, but it can provide services to faculty and community members. The center will be open Monday through Friday, but officials hope to expand the hours in the future.
Stay with News Channel 3 to hear from directors and a parent on how this center is filling a need in the community.