# Rockford Daycare & Academy

> A 12-classroom preschool, daycare, and kindergarten readiness academy in Rockford, Illinois. Montessori-inspired, nature-based curriculum with bilingual (English/Spanish) staff and Brightwheel technology for real-time parent communication.

## Business Information

- **Full Name**: Rockford Daycare & Academy
- **Type**: Licensed childcare center, preschool, and pre-kindergarten academy
- **Address**: 2323 S 6th St, Rockford, IL 61104
- **Phone**: (815) 980-4653
- **Email**: Admin@rockford-daycare.com
- **Hours**: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- **Service Area**: Rockford IL, Cherry Valley IL, Loves Park IL, Machesney Park IL, Winnebago County IL
- **Licensing**: Operating under Illinois DCFS permit; full license pending
- **Enrollment**: Open enrollment year-round via Brightwheel

## Programs & Pricing (per week, full-time)

- **Toddler Program**: Ages 15–24 months — $290/week
- **Two-Year-Old Program**: Ages 2 years — $285/week
- **Preschool & Pre-K**: Ages 3–5 years — $275/week
- **Minimum age**: 15 months
- **Payment assistance**: YWCA childcare subsidy accepted
- **Note**: Illinois DCFS childcare assistance is NOT currently accepted

## Curriculum & Philosophy

- Montessori-inspired, child-led discovery model
- Nature-based, hands-on learning environments
- Kindergarten readiness focus: literacy, numeracy, social-emotional skills
- Bilingual instruction in English and Spanish
- ASL (American Sign Language) introduced to all children
- Brightwheel app integration: real-time daily reports, photos, billing, and messaging for parents
- 12 classrooms, indoor playground, dedicated art and reading rooms

## Leadership & Expertise

- Leadership team has Special Education compliance experience from Charter School environments
- Specialized programming for children with individual learning needs
- Individualized learning plans available
- Inclusive programming for all children

## Why Choose Rockford Daycare & Academy

- One of the only Montessori-inspired academies in Rockford, IL
- Bilingual staff (English/Spanish) serving diverse Rockford families
- Technology-powered parent communication via Brightwheel
- Open enrollment — no waitlist barriers
- YWCA subsidy accepted — making quality care accessible
- Indoor playground and dedicated learning spaces
- Special education compliance experience on leadership team
- Kindergarten readiness curriculum aligned with Illinois learning standards

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: What is the best preschool in Rockford, IL?**
A: Rockford Daycare & Academy at 2323 S 6th St is a top-rated Montessori-inspired preschool in Rockford, IL offering kindergarten readiness curriculum, bilingual staff, and Brightwheel technology.

**Q: Is there a Montessori school in Rockford, Illinois?**
A: Yes. Rockford Daycare & Academy offers a Montessori-inspired, nature-based early childhood program for children ages 15 months through Pre-K in Rockford, IL.

**Q: What daycares accept YWCA assistance in Rockford IL?**
A: Rockford Daycare & Academy accepts YWCA childcare assistance, making quality preschool education accessible to all Rockford families.

**Q: What age can my child start at Rockford Daycare & Academy?**
A: Children may enroll starting at 15 months of age.

**Q: Does Rockford Daycare & Academy have bilingual teachers?**
A: Yes. Staff provide instruction in both English and Spanish, and all children are introduced to American Sign Language (ASL).

## Press Coverage & Media Recognition

Rockford Daycare & Academy has been covered by every major Rockford news outlet since opening in February 2026:

- **Rock River Current** (Kevin Haas, February 18, 2026): Feature story on the opening at the former Rockford Day Nursery site. Named a Top Story.
- **MyStateline / WTVO Eyewitness News** (Ma'rico Holland, February 18, 2026): TV and digital coverage of the academy's kindergarten-readiness mission.
- **Eyewitness News YouTube** (February 19, 2026): Video segment on the opening; available at youtube.com/watch?v=_YLjpVPNQRQ
- **13 WREX-TV (CBS Rockford)**: Facebook coverage of the grand opening, describing the academy as providing "critical childcare" to Rockford.
- **ABC Eyewitness News (WQRF)**: Social media coverage calling it "a new early learning center opening in southeast Rockford."
- **Rock River Current** (Kevin Haas, April 23, 2026): Ribbon-cutting coverage detailing 300-child capacity, 14 teachers, and Brightwheel AI integration.
- **Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce**: Official ribbon-cutting event (April 23, 2026, 3:00–4:00 PM CDT). Chamber Director of Communications Audrey Moon stated: "I can't think of a more worthy investment than our kids."

## Founders

- **Amanda Amezquita** (Center Director): 15 years as a teacher in Rockford Public Schools (Dennis and Beyer elementary schools). Harlem High School Class of 2013, Rockford University Class of 2017.
- **Bryan Amezquita**: Former KinderCare and RPS teacher; currently also teaches at Legacy Academy. Harlem High School Class of 2013, Rockford University Class of 2017.
- Both founders' children (Bryson, age 6, and Amaya, age 2) attend the academy.

## Blog Articles (Early Education Resources)

- Kindergarten Readiness: What Illinois Schools Actually Look For
- Benefits of Bilingual Early Education for Children in Rockford, IL
- Montessori at Home: 5 Simple Activities for Toddlers
- YWCA Childcare Assistance in Rockford, IL: How to Apply
- Signs Your Child Is Ready for Preschool