News & Press
New Report Reveals Concerning State of ECE
A new NAEYC report, titled Going Over the Child Care Cliff, reveals that many of the concerning predictions regarding tuition increases, wage cuts and closed classrooms following the expiration of federal stabilization funds are now becoming a reality.
Milwaukee Succeeds hosts ECE Winterfest Bash
On December 9, Milwaukee Succeeds and our ECE Ambassadors welcomed the community to our first-ever Winterfest Bash. The event was an opportunity to connect with the community, discover the topics that matter most to them and – most importantly – celebrate the season together.
Anna Smerchek Transitions to ECE Community Engagement Manager
After a year of tirelessly working to connect Milwaukee Succeeds with the larger community, this fall Anna Smerchek transitioned to the newly created role of ECE community engagement manager.
Fall Brings More Community Engagement for Ambassadors
Over the course of the year, Milwaukee Succeeds’ ECE Ambassadors have become mainstays in the community, connecting with local residents at a variety of events and engaging with ECE providers across the city. This fall, their schedules have been packed full of events and trainings as they strive to make the most of the final few months of the year.
Teacher Shortages Endanger the Future of Child Care
Providers in Milwaukee and throughout Wisconsin are finding it difficult to meet the demand for quality child care because many teachers have left the field. Former teachers report that although they love working with children, they cannot continue to work for the average starting wage of $12 to $15 per hour and no benefits.
This article by Rilla Williams, is the owner of Pristine Child Care LLC, was originally published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as part of a special report by the Ideas Lab.
Wait lists. High costs. Our child care system is broken.
I contacted eight different child care centers. All of them had waitlists ranging from 3 to 9 months. None of them could guarantee an opening by a specific time. Not having friends or family in the nearby area that could provide immediate care 40 hours a week, I knew I wouldn’t be able to accept a role without a guaranteed child care spot. I left the workforce and became a stay-at-home mom.
This article by ECE Ambassador Callie Colbo was originally published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as part of a special report by the Ideas Lab.
Child care can cost as much as college. Why are so many centers in danger of closing?
Early childhood education is far more than babysitting. Since the vast majority of brain development happens before 3, this is a critical time for kids. This care is all about helping them grow, learn and develop important skills that are crucial for future success.
This editorial by Vincent Lyles was originally published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as part of a special report by the Ideas Lab.
ECE Career Program Exceeds Enrollment Expectations
The Social Development Commission’s ECE Career Program, funded by a state Workforce Innovation Grant, has exceeded its enrollment expectations despite ongoing challenges in the field. The initial goal was 35 participants. They enrolled 43.
ECE Ambassadors Have Busy Back-to-School Season
Back-to-school season is a hectic time for many - and our Early Childhood Education Ambassadors are no exception! This group has been popping up at events and resources fairs across the community to share their passion for child care.
ECE Ambassadors Stop by Penfield’s Health & Safety Day
Our dedicated Early Childhood Education Ambassadors made their latest stop at Penfield Children's Center for their annual Health & Safety Day on July 11. The event was well-attended by ECE providers, employees and families, making it an excellent opportunity to connect with those most impacted by the ongoing struggles facing the sector.