(Radio Iowa) – With childcare industry shortages statewide, one northeast Iowa school district is repurposing an outdated elementary school building to become a dedicated early education and preschool center. Ed Klamfoth is superintendent of the Waverly-Shell Rock School District and says the transformation makes perfect sense, as growth over the past decade has meant more updated buildings, bigger classes, and more kids.

“Now, because of this vacancy created, we’ve got an opportunity to expand preschool offerings in Waverly for those that need it,” Klamfoth says, “so that’s what we’re looking at doing.” Plus, he says renovating the building means no expensive demolition or construction projects. Klamfoth says it’s part of the district’s responsibility to consider how best to use old buildings.

“We exist to serve the community,” he says, “and if this is a way for us to be able to offer that support that’s needed, then I think it’s worth taking a look at.” About 50 kids are expected in this coming fall’s preschool program in the district, more than double last year’s enrollment.