High quality early learning experiences can lead not only to success in kindergarten, but also to a happier, healthier, more productive life. The funds seek to provide access to high-quality early learning settings so that all children can succeed. Key performance measures benchmark our success in improving access to high-quality early learning experiences.
Accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) represents one of the highest standards of quality. In Arizona only 17% of child care centers are NAEYC accredited.
(Source: Children's Action Alliance: Measuring School Readiness--How Do We Know When We're On Track?)
One of the biggest barriers to school readiness is access to adequate health care. Many young children in Arizona do not receive preventive health screenings. One investment opportunity is to fund health professionals in child care centers with predominantly low-income populations so that young children get access to health services when they need them most.
Investing in child care centers through quality enhancement grants enables centers to raise quality and work towards accreditation.