Built by the Community. Inspired by the Future. Little Lyons Childcare was created from a simple but powerful belief: every child deserves a safe, nurturing place to learn and grow, and every family deserves access to reliable, high-quality childcare.

In 2023, the Emporia Area Chamber Foundation, through Ignite Emporia, purchased the former Maynard Elementary School with a vision of transforming a beloved community landmark into a modern childcare center that would help address the growing childcare shortage in Emporia and Lyon County. What was once a neighborhood school has been reimagined as a place where the next generation can learn, play, and thrive while supporting the needs of local families and employers.

Little Lyons officially welcomed its first families in September 2024 under the leadership of Administrator Serena Jeffery. From the beginning, our mission has extended beyond providing exceptional early childhood education. We are building a childcare center designed to strengthen families, support the local workforce, and invest in the future of our community.

Today, Little Lyons continues to grow through a multi-phase expansion that will increase capacity and move toward offering around-the-clock childcare services. This vision is made possible through the partnership of community leaders, local businesses, charitable foundations, generous donors, and countless individuals who believe that access to quality childcare is essential to a thriving community.

At Little Lyons Childcare, we are proud to provide more than childcare—we provide a place where children build confidence, curiosity, friendships, and a lifelong love of learning while giving parents the peace of mind they need each day.