Local legislators, business leaders, and community advocates gathered for the Early Ed Month Leadership Convening in northwest Louisiana, emphasizing the need for increased access to quality early childhood education for children from birth to age four. The event, held in partnership with the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children (LPIC), Louisiana Early Childhood Business Roundtable, Louisiana Association of United Ways (LAUW), Louisiana Association of Business & Industry, and United Way of Northwest Louisiana, is part of the annual Louisiana Early Ed Month campaign, which highlights the impact of early education across the state throughout February.
Addressing the Need for Early Childhood Education
Advocates at the convening emphasized the economic and developmental importance of early education for Louisiana’s children and workforce.
United Way of Northwest Louisiana President & CEO LaToria W. Thomas highlighted the urgency for investments in early education.
“Providing children with a strong start in life and supporting parents in the workforce is fundamental for thriving families and communities. With over 60% of Louisiana children starting kindergarten behind their peers and 56% of ALICE parents struggling to make ends meet, robust investments in early education are essential to secure a brighter future for our state.”
Economic Impact of Child Care Access
According to Dr. Libbie Sonnier, CEO of LPIC, the lack of access to quality child care presents a significant economic challenge for the state.
“Louisiana loses over $1.3 billion in economic activity annually due to inadequate child care access. This loss highlights the urgency for legislators and business leaders to prioritize investments in early childhood education, which directly benefit children, families, and the economy.”
Highlighting the Benefits of High-Quality Early Education
As part of the convening, attendees toured the Providence House Child Development Center, a 4-STAR early childhood education facility, to see firsthand the impact of high-quality child care programs on children and families.
Verni Howard, Executive Director of Providence House, spoke about the center’s role in preparing children for school success while enabling parents to participate in the workforce.
“Our work supports not just the children we care for but also the parents contributing to Louisiana’s economy. We currently have 25 children enrolled, and 100% of them attend because their parents are working or looking for jobs. Not only do the children have a safe place to go, but they are also provided with the educational tools needed for kindergarten readiness.”
The center’s curriculum includes FrogStreet Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) programming, ensuring children are fully prepared for kindergarten.
The Case for Increased Early Education Investment
Sarah Berthelot, President and CEO of LAUW, underscored the long-term benefits of early education.
“Research shows children who start school ready to learn are more likely to succeed academically and economically. By acting now, we can ensure all children in northwest Louisiana have the opportunity to thrive.”
Studies have shown that investments in early childhood education yield a return of at least 13% per year, demonstrating both economic and social benefits for communities.
Join the Conversation
Louisiana Early Ed Month aims to inspire action among policymakers, business leaders, and community members to support expanded early education access across the state.
To learn more about early childhood education initiatives in Louisiana, visit Policyinstitutela.org. Join the conversation on social media using #LAEarlyEdMonth.