Childcare Advocates Push for Inclusion of Early Childhood Education in Rams Settlement Funds
Childcare advocate Paula-Breonne Vickers is speaking out against a new proposal for Rams settlement money, arguing that early childhood education should be a top priority. She emphasizes the impact on parents who are unable to work due to lack of childcare, as well as the developmental consequences for children.
Earlier this year, a city-wide survey revealed that replacing water mains, traffic improvements, pay raises for city employees, and subsidized childcare were among the most popular ideas for spending the Rams money. However, a newly proposed bill has omitted childcare in favor of investing in disinvested neighborhoods and the downtown area.
While some officials support the new proposal, Alderman Rasheen Aldridge believes it is premature to make a final decision. He stresses the importance of respecting the input of residents throughout the decision-making process.
Alderman Cara Spencer, a co-sponsor of the bill, defends the focus on disinvested neighborhoods and downtown, citing the need to address population loss and business closures. She believes that investing in these areas will have a significant impact on the city’s future.
Childcare centers have faced challenges this year, including delays in subsidy payments and the expiration of COVID relief funding. With costs rising and funding running out, advocates like Vickers see the Rams money as a crucial source of support for the struggling childcare industry.
In response to the proposed bill, early childhood educators will have the opportunity to voice their concerns at an upcoming meeting on Monday. This meeting will provide a platform for advocates to make their case for including early childhood education in the allocation of Rams settlement funds.
