In Edsele, Sweden, the closure of a private school and its preschool in January has created a critical situation for the community. Village representatives are demanding that Sollefteå municipality immediately establish a preschool and after-school program under municipal management. Currently, there are 14 children in need of preschool places and 6 children needing after-school care.
The village is growing, with seven children born in 2025 and more expected in 2026. Children who attended the preschool had to be relocated to other towns. A proposal from village representatives has been submitted to Sollefteå municipality for the municipality to run the preschool and after-school program, and it will be discussed in the municipal board and council in April.
Parents in Edsele feel this is taking too long. Without local childcare, parents face long commutes, impacting both private life and the local economy. The ripple effect has already led to closed businesses.