Take a Virtual Tour of Willamalane’s Tiny Ducks Preschool
For the last few years, Willamalane has focused on expanding and improving childcare options for families in Springfield. Today, the preschool program is the largest it's ever been, welcoming up to 116 students each year in a bright, brand-new space where kids thrive and families feel connected and supported.
Ready to see what all the buzz is about? Take a virtual tour of Willamalane’s Tiny Ducks Preschool
Reimaging the Space
Willamalane’s team evaluated the space near the Bob Keefer Center’s preschool wing and found that with the right creative thinking and funding, conference rooms and underutilized program spaces could be transformed into fully functional preschool classrooms.
At the same time, the University of Oregon was seeking ideas to enhance preschool options for families in the area. After several conversations and plans, the University made a one-time investment of $500,000 to make the expansion possible. Then, many other community organizations also supported the purchase of classroom supplies and playground equipment.
After months of construction and planning, the new Willamalane Tiny Ducks Preschool opened its doors in September 2024.
Take a Quick Tour of the New Space
NEW CLASSROOMS
The preschool is a wonderfully welcoming space filled with calming paint colors, playful murals, and natural elements that create a nurturing environment. The renovation added three new classrooms, which had previously been meeting rooms or unused spaces. Each room is filled with storytime corners for group reading, colorful kid-sized furniture for learning, and plentiful school supplies.
Plus, each classroom now has a restroom attached. Teachers also have access to storage areas, adult restrooms, an office, and a kitchen, all within the preschool wing.
PLENTY OF PLAY SPACE
Preschoolers have plenty of options for play at Willamalane! With the renovation, the playground now features all-new equipment, covered outdoor areas, and soft-surfaces play areas. On rainy winter days, classes will often opt to use Bob Keefer Center’s indoor courts as all-weather play spaces. During good weather, groups may take quick walks to the turf fields or playground at Les Schwab Sports Park.
SAFE AND SECURE
The preschool is conveniently located at Bob Keefer Center, but it is a separate entity, with keypad-coded doors at all entrances, ensuring the preschool is safe and secure. Plus, all staff have completed state-required background checks and fulfilled all child care safety training requirements.
DECADES OF EXPERIENCE
Willamalane’s preschool programs began back in the early 1950s. Our classrooms, teachers, and curriculum have evolved, but our care and commitment to nurturing children have been at the core of this program for nearly 75 years.
TALENTED STAFF
The teachers in each classroom have worked with young children for many years, creating nurturing classrooms where kids feel safe and supported. Each full-time classroom has a student-to-teacher ratio of 1:10, while part-time classrooms have a 1:8 ratio. Each room has a teacher who is bilingual in English and Spanish to support families who speak Spanish. One teacher is also fluent in American Sign Language and integrates signing into daily activities.
KINDER READINESS
Early education is crucial in preparing children for kindergarten and fostering lifelong success. Willamalane’s thoughtfully designed curriculum focuses on early STEM and literacy, creative play, and social-emotional learning to help kids feel ready for kindergarten.
AFFORDABLE PRICING
In a region where preschool is scarce, Willamalane is committed to keeping rates affordable, often below market pricing, so more families can access this essential service. The preschool accepts ERDC payments, offers sibling discounts, and has a scholarship program.
Schedule a Tour
Interested in seeing it for yourself? Call 541-736-4544 to schedule a tour.
Enrollment opens at 8 a.m. on Aug. 13.