Decreased Enrollment Could Cause Apple Tree Preschool To Close

PLAINFIELD, IL — Apple Tree Preschool, an education program within Plainfield Congregational United Church of Christ, is at risk of closing its doors after more than 40 years of operation.

In a letter to the community shared with Patch, staff of the preschool, at 24020 W. Fraser Road, cited decreased enrollment as "a significant challenge that threatens our ability to continue providing our play-based approach to early childhood education."

The COVID-19 pandemic and changes in the education system affected enrollment, according to a GoFundMe campaign started by the school in an effort to raise money to keep the school running.

As a result, the financial shortfall could cause the school to close for the next year, according to the letter.

As of Tuesday morning, the GoFundMe fundraiser had raised just over $6,000 toward its $25,000 goal. Staff also ask locals to spread the word about efforts, enroll by emailing appletreepreschool78@gmail.com for more information, and support the school through volunteering efforts.

"The thought of losing this vital resource for our community is heartbreaking," staff said in the letter. "Apple Tree Preschool is more than just a school; it's a family. Here, children experience the joy of learning through play, where their imaginations soar, and their social and emotional skills blossom."

The message continued: "Together, we can ensure that Apple Tree Preschool continues to be a beacon of play-based learning and a cornerstone of our community for generations to come."