Navigation Team Meeting Recap: Childcare Infrastructure and Policy

On Friday, November 15, the Max Loves Midland Navigation Team met to tackle a critical topic affecting families, businesses, and the community: childcare infrastructure and policy. Local and regional experts gathered to share insights into the challenges and opportunities within this space, sparking discussions and collaborative problem-solving among attendees.

Childcare is more than a family issue—it’s an economic driver. It impacts workforce retention, productivity, and community growth. The meeting explored how Midland County and Michigan at large are addressing these concerns, showcasing initiatives and solutions to build a sustainable childcare system for the future.

Statewide Insights on Childcare Policy

Ken Roubal, representing the Early Childhood Investment Corporation and the Child Care Innovation Fund, provided an overview of Michigan's childcare landscape:

Economic Impact: Insufficient childcare access costs Michigan employers $2.3 billion annually in turnover and absences, diminishing local tax bases and stifling business growth.
Innovative Programs: The MI Tri-Share Child Care Program, splitting childcare costs between employers, employees, and the state, and initiatives like registered apprenticeships for early childhood educators, aim to alleviate financial and workforce barriers.
Return on Investment: Investing in early childhood education (ECE) yields up to 425% ROI, benefiting families, businesses, and communities alike.

Roubal emphasized the need for childcare to be recognized as infrastructure, critical to both families and the economy, and highlighted tools like municipal and employer roadmaps to support childcare expansion.

Regional Efforts: Great Start Readiness Programs

Katie Danks of the Regional Preschool Partnerships delved into the expansion of the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) in Midland County:

Growth in Access: This year, Midland added nine classrooms, supporting a total of 32 state-funded preschool classrooms through partnerships with local school districts and community-based organizations.
Pre-K for All: GSRP prioritizes families with the greatest need but now offers broader access, including enrollment opportunities for families above traditional income thresholds when space is available.
Community Involvement: Attendees were encouraged to spread the word about these programs to increase enrollment, proving their necessity to legislators and ensuring continued funding.

Local Landscape and Solutions

Bethany Shoun, who could not attend, and Andrea Secrease, who presented for us, of Greater Midland outlined the childcare challenges unique to Midland County:

Affordability: Childcare costs often rival mortgage payments, creating significant barriers for families.
Staffing Issues: High turnover rates and the need for extensive certifications make it challenging to sustain a stable workforce.
Innovative Payment Models: Greater Midland’s sliding fee scales and scholarships through the Ready for School Endowment Fund help make childcare more accessible.

Despite these challenges, the community has reason for optimism. Increased awareness during the pandemic has shifted perceptions, framing childcare as vital infrastructure rather than a personal issue.

Great Start Collaborative and Advocacy Opportunities

Stephanie Shook of the Great Start Collaborative highlighted local initiatives aimed at bolstering the childcare system:

Professional Development: Workshops for childcare providers address key issues like trauma-informed care and developmental support.
Upcoming Event: A childcare awareness event in spring 2025 will showcase the economic value of early care and education and celebrate local educators’ contributions.
Support for Providers: Resources like Michigan’s Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) and the Great Start to Quality Central Resource Center help providers enhance their programs and connect families with high-quality childcare.

How You Can Help

Collaboration is key to strengthening Midland County’s childcare system. Here’s how you can contribute:

Spread Awareness: Share information about GSRP and local childcare resources with families and employers.
Advocate: Contact state legislators to support sustained and increased funding for childcare initiatives.
Support Providers: Help connect small childcare businesses with grants, loans, and other resources to offset costs and expand capacity.
Engage in Conversations: Clear up misconceptions about early childhood education and highlight its critical role in child development and economic growth.

Looking Ahead

Childcare is a foundational element of community wellbeing and economic prosperity. The Max Loves Midland Navigation Team remains committed to addressing this issue through collaboration, advocacy, and innovative solutions. By working together, we can ensure every family in Midland County has access to affordable, high-quality childcare—and take another step toward fulfilling the community’s vision of an inclusive community where everyone thrives.

If you would like to join the Navigation team, please send us a message! All are welcome.