News & Press
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.
Ambassadors Build Awareness at COA Resource Event
COA's Diaper and Community Resource Fair on July 9 was the latest stop for our Early Childhood Education (ECE) Ambassadors. This dedicated group of women has been spending the past few months connecting with community members and sharing the importance of high-quality, affordable child care.
Statement from Ellen Gilligan and Vincent Lyles on the Legislature’s Passage of a 2023-25 State Budget
We are deeply disappointed by the legislature’s decision to pass a 2023-25 state budget that doesn’t include state funding for the proven, effective Child Care Counts program. This decision will have profound and lasting consequences for Milwaukee’s youngest children, working families, and workforce.
ECE Ambassadors Attend COA Safe Summer Kick-Off
During COA’s Safe Summer Kickoff Event, our ECE Ambassadors connected with local families and provided valuable information on Wisconsin Shares, the ECE workforce and the power of organizing around ECE.