West Loop and Lincoln Park Parents Scramble After Sonnets Academy Daycare Centers Suddenly Close
CHICAGO, Illinois — Parents and teachers were left stunned after Sonnets Academy daycare centers in West Loop and Lincoln Park abruptly closed last week, citing serious financial troubles and low enrollment. The closures, announced without warning, left families scrambling for child care as the new work week began.
Families Blindsided by Sudden Shutdown
On Friday, the centers ceased operations, and many parents discovered the news not through management, but by seeing a letter taped to the door. The notice explained that Sonnets Academy’s assets had been turned over to a bankruptcy trustee, cutting off services immediately.
Several families had recently paid full-year deposits, only to find themselves without care for their children and without answers. Parent Luisa Lewis said she spent the night awake searching for alternatives. “Figuring out schools, locations and firing off emails until four in the morning,” she explained. “Then there are all these teachers and staff members who are out of work as well.”
Teachers Caught in Financial Fallout
Staff also felt the shock of the closure. Teacher Emma Holzhauer said her health care coverage was abruptly canceled, leaving employees scrambling to schedule medical appointments before losing benefits. “We found out our health care was taken away, and everyone was scrambling to get doctor’s appointments in,” she told NBC Chicago.
Alternatives Suggested, but Questions Remain
In the email to families, Sonnets Academy recommended other local daycare providers, including L&L Academy, Kensington School, and The Goddard School. However, many parents are worried about long waitlists and higher costs at these facilities. NBC Chicago reached out to Sonnets Academy leadership and the bankruptcy trustee but received no response.
The sudden closures have left Chicago families juggling work and child care while teachers face lost jobs and canceled benefits. For more local education and community updates, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.