Linden Public Schools Expands Early Childhood Opportunities with New Dedicated Pre-K Facility

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LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ -- Seeking to meet increasing demand for preschool enrollment, the Linden Board of Education approved an agreement Tuesday that will allow Linden Public Schools to open a new dedicated Pre-K facility in neighboring Winfield Park.

The board voted during a special meeting on June 9 to approve a lease agreement with Winfield Mutual Housing Corporation for the building located at 1 Paul M. Greig Way. The facility will be used as a learning institution for the district's expanding preschool program. The lease commenced June 1, 2026, and extends through June 30, 2031.

"This investment reflects our unwavering commitment to providing every child with a strong start and access to high-quality early childhood education," Superintendent Dr. Atiya Perkins said. "As demand for preschool continues to grow, this new facility allows us to expand opportunities for our youngest learners while creating a dedicated environment designed specifically to support their development, curiosity, and future success."

Located just off Exit 136 of the Garden State Parkway, the facility remains within the same 07036 zip code shared by Linden and Winfield Park, allowing the district to expand capacity while keeping students connected to the local school community. The site is situated within Winfield Park, a residential community established in 1941 that encompasses approximately 105 acres and includes 253 residential buildings housing nearly 700 families.

The new center is the result of a collaborative effort among district and the city to expand access to high-quality early childhood education.

Mayor Derek Armstead said the opportunity emerged after he learned of an available facility that could help address the district's growing need for preschool space.

"Recognizing that we were short on space for our Pre-K program and that demand was increasing, I encouraged conversations with the school district," Mayor Armstead said. "Today, we are proud to announce that Linden will have a dedicated early childhood building right here in the 07036 community."

District leaders say the dedicated facility represents more than additional classroom space. It is an investment in the formative years when children develop the academic, social, emotional, and communication skills that lay the foundation for future success.

"We believe every child deserves the opportunity to discover their unique potential," Dr. Perkins said. "This new early childhood center puts that belief into action by creating a space where our youngest learners can grow, explore, and begin developing the future-ready skills that will serve them throughout their educational journey."

Armstead said the expansion reflects the community's commitment to investing in its youngest residents. "A city that puts its children first knows it is investing not only in today, but in tomorrow," he said.

As preparations begin for the facility's opening, district leaders say the new center will create additional opportunities for families while strengthening the district's ability to provide high-quality preschool experiences for its youngest learners.

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