The Archie R-V School District is working quickly to address a growing childcare crisis in the community following the upcoming closure of Archie’s only licensed daycare center on November 26, 2025. With the shutdown, the district says many families will be left without reliable childcare and notes that Archie is now officially classified as a “childcare desert,” where available childcare spots fall far short of local demand.
District leaders say they are committed to ensuring all children have access to a safe and dependable place to learn and grow. To help fill the gap, the district is pursuing grants and partnering with a local childcare provider to launch a high-quality childcare program located on the school campus. Early feedback from families, gathered through a recent survey, shows strong interest and strong need for the project.
To qualify for the most viable grant opportunity, the district must secure matching in-kind contributions from community members, organizations, and local businesses. Contributions can include monetary donations as well as materials, services, or supplies. The district says these in-kind contributions are essential to unlocking grant funding and moving the project forward.
Items the district is seeking include a large storage container, electrical or plumbing work, flooring and installation services, a camera system, fire and safety equipment, and major appliances such as a refrigerator, stove, microwave, or dishwasher. The district emphasizes that both large and small contributions will directly support families who may otherwise struggle to find care.
As a show of appreciation, all donors will be recognized through signage displayed at the school, publicly highlighting the individuals and businesses who helped make the new childcare program possible.
Those interested in supporting the project or learning more can contact Early Childhood Director Kristi Reynolds at 816-293-5312 ext. 1093 or via email at kreynolds@archie.k12.mo.us. Community members may also scan the QR code provided in the district’s announcement to share their interest.
District administrators say that with community support, Archie can continue to be a place where families live, work, and thrive.
