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The Mckenna Foundation is seeking support and participation from local early childcare providers to push forward in creating an ambitious yet practical future for our youngest learners.

The McKenna Foundation is organizing a series of collaborative sessions to address the challenges faced by local childcare providers and parents. These sessions aim to create a pathway toward affordable and high-quality early childhood care while simultaneously running a successful business.

To accomplish this, the Foundation is seeking the unique insights and experiences of local childcare providers to help shape a promising future for our children.

Local childcare providers are invited to join us and participate in the first Path Forward for Early Learning and Care meeting on August 24, from 10 am to 1 pm at the McKenna Events Center. Local providers who participate in all three sessions will be entered to win a complimentary field trip to the McKenna Children’s Museum for up to 50 children currently enrolled at their center.

If you are a local childcare provider and would like to participate in the Path Forward for Early Learning and Care sessions, RSVP by emailing Kristen Fain at kfain@mckenna.org.

The McKenna Foundation recognizes that the challenges in early childhood care are significant and multifaceted, with a few of the key issues including:

HIGH COSTS: Childcare often costs more than in-state college tuition, making it a significant financial burden for families.

LOW WAGES: Childcare workers earn significantly less than workers in other sectors, such as retail.

LEGISLATION: Changes in licensure and business models are causing many childcare centers in Texas to close.

FUNDING GAPS: There is insufficient funding and support for early childhood education compared to K-12 education.

STAFFING: There is a high turnover rate and a shortage of trained teachers in the field.

These challenges highlight the need for increased investment and support for early childhood education to ensure that children, families, and childcare workers can thrive in our community.

For more information on early childhood care and education, click here.