January brings reconnection between friends and teachers as they settle back into learning routines. It is also a time to share important updates about how Plano CUSD 88 continues to plan responsibly for the future and invest in the programs and spaces that support student success.
The Plano Community Unit School District 88 Board of Education remains deeply committed to meeting the needs of all learners and understands that learning begins EARLY, with our youngest learners. The Board has not only prioritized high-quality preschool programming for children ages 3–5 but has also responsibly planned for the future of our community. On December 15th at the regularly scheduled monthly Board of Education meeting, the Board unanimously voted to proceed with the design and planning of an addition to P.H. Miller Elementary School.
District 88 offers both half-day and full-day preschool options at two locations, including P.H. Miller and the Fox Valley YMCA. We serve approximately 240 students through a combination of state and local funding:
108 seats funded through the ISBE Preschool for All Grant
40 seats funded through the ISBE Preschool for All Expansion Grant
92 seats funded through local district funds
In 2022, the Board made the decision to allocate additional local resources to expand preschool opportunities for Plano families. This commitment reflects both our district values and a strong body of research demonstrating the importance of early childhood education.
Why Preschool Matters
Research consistently shows that high-quality preschool experiences are critical to long-term student success. Children who participate in preschool programs are more likely to:
Enter kindergarten with stronger early literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional skills
Demonstrate improved attendance and engagement in school
Require fewer academic and behavioral interventions later in their school careers
Graduate from high school and pursue postsecondary education at higher rates
Equally important, preschool programs support families by providing structured learning environments that foster independence, confidence, and a love of learning during a child’s most formative years. Investing early enables our school district to meet student needs better and use resources more efficiently over time.
Temporary Space and the Need for a Long-Term Solution
As a result of expanding preschool enrollment, the Board entered into an agreement with the Fox Valley YMCA, effective in the 2022–23 school year, to use three of their preschool classrooms for our programs. The original memorandum of understanding was established for three years and was later extended through the 2025–26 school year.
As Kendall County continues to grow, the Fox Valley YMCA is seeking to expand its own programming to meet increasing community demand. As a result, District 88 was faced with either reducing current levels of preschool programming or seeking options to relocate our preschool classrooms currently housed at the YMCA back to facilities within the school district.
Capacity Challenges at P.H. Miller
Many families are already aware that P.H. Miller Elementary School is operating at capacity. To support student learning, the former cafeteria/common space is now shared by STEM programming and the school library. Students currently eat lunch in their classrooms due to space limitations.
To responsibly accommodate the returning preschool classrooms and address existing space constraints, the Board of Education has directed the me to proceed with the design and planning phase of an eight-classroom addition at P.H. Miller. The project will also include:
These options will allow the Board to evaluate flexibility, cost efficiency, and long-term enrollment needs before final decisions are made.
Financial Responsibility
The Board of Education has established and maintained a strong financial profile through responsible planning and stewardship of district resources. An addition to P.H. Miller Elementary School would be funded by the district's fund balance (savings account), allowing us to meet student needs while honoring our fiscal commitment without burdening our taxpayers.
Looking Ahead
This planning effort reflects the Board’s long-term vision: investing in early learning, supporting families, and ensuring our facilities align with instructional needs while remaining financially sound and transparent with our community.
- 2025-26: Design and planning phase of the project.
- 2026-27: YMCA classrooms will continue as they are at the YMCA location and at P.H. Miller. Pending final Board approval, construction will begin on the addition at P.H. Miller to reduce crowding and allow for the three YMCA classrooms to "come home" to P.H. Miller.
- 2027-28: All preschool classrooms will be located at P.H. Miller
The Board of Education and I are grateful for your continued support of Plano CUSD 88 and and early learning in our community. I look forward to sharing additional updates as this project progresses.
Sincerely,
Dr. Tracy Thurwanger
Superintendent
Plano Community Unit School District 88
