Early Learning Indiana Chief Executive Officer Maureen Weber says a new study demonstrates the “dramatic” economic impact workforce disruptions related to childcare have on the state’s economy. The research, conducted in partnership with the Indiana University Public Policy Institute, shows a lack of access to childcare costs employers $1.8 billion. The effects, Weber says, extend to communities of all sizes.
In an interview on Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick, Weber described the “two-generational impact” access to childcare — including pre-kindergarten — has on Hoosiers. Boosting access, she adds, “can secure our future, while also helping to improve our status quo and getting more workers on the field.” Weber says when children receive quality education early, they reap the rewards in the form of higher academic achievement and an increase in their eventual value in the workforce. Because of this, Weber says the business community is invested in the work of her organization.
During the upcoming legislative session, Weber says she and other leaders will continue to seek expansion of the statewide “On My Way Pre-K” program that is still in a pilot stage, offering subsidized pre-kindergarten for Hoosier families with low incomes. She is also hoping that more business stakeholders come forward to support more availability for the program.
You can connect to more about the study by clicking here.