Educational Success

Our Policy and Advocacy Agenda

Protect and increase existing early childhood investments, including the expansion of state reimbursement rates for early childhood care and education providers to promote greater stability across the sector’s workforce.

Expand funding and policies to advance afterschool, summer youth enrichment and career pathway programs.

Maintain federal conformity for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) to fully access federal funds.
Expand access to high-quality early care and education to all families from low-wealth households.
Advance policies to reduce student financial responsibilities for post-secondary education.

Early Learning

80% of brain development occurs by age 3, and during these critical years, many of poverty’s challenges can inhibit young children’s development and educational success.
Educational Disparities

Gaps in opportunity begin early on and persist through adulthood. In Minnesota, children facing persistent poverty are:
13% less likely to graduate high school
29% less likely to enroll in post-secondary education
36% less likely to retain consistent employment
High School Graduation Rates

In the greater Twin Cities, 1 out of 5 students does not graduate from high school on time.
Access to Quality Child Care

More than 33,000 children across Minnesota are unable to access quality early childhood care and education during their most critical years for learning.

"Education is everything. I think our community has a duty to help children learn. "
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Devin & Fabíola
"We know the best path to a child’s success is high-quality, culturally relevant childcare and education. "
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Acooa Ellis, Senior Vice President of Community Impact