'06-'07 Committee: Martha Perine Beard (Chair); Ken Glass; Diane Rudner; Gary Shorb

Research clearly demonstrates that a child’s development during the 0-5 years is the key determinant of his or her school and life success. Furthermore, sociologists and economists have proven the economic value of high quality early care and education, pointing to a return of $16 for every $1 invested.

In response to the research, Memphis Tomorrow has launched two initiatives to help raise the quality of early care and education in Memphis.

Ready, Set, Grow!
Ready, Set, Grow! is a child care accreditation project initiated and funded by Memphis Tomorrow, and operated through the University of Memphis College of Education. Launched in 2004 as a pilot, the project is designed to provide the consulting and academic support necessary to help 40 local child care programs achieve national accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The pilot project is expect to conclude in 2007 with a result of tripling (from 21 to 60) the number of accredited programs in Shelby County. Assuming success, the project will be expanded to support additional programs in gaining accreditation. 

Memphis/Shelby County Strategic Plan for Quality Early Care and Education
Recognizing the need for a more comprehensive, systemic strategy to raise the quality of early care programs, in 2004 Memphis Tomorrow launched a planning initiative with the First Years Institute and Mayor A C Wharton. This initiative, funded by Memphis Tomorrow, and guided by a steering committee of leaders from education, government, community, business and the child care industry, resulted in the Memphis/Shelby County Strategic Plan for Quality Early Care and Education. The plan, which was completd in October 2005, incorporates extensive evidence-based research as well as input from over 2000 parents and child care providers.

With support from Memphis Tomorrow, the First Years Institute and others, the plan is presently being executed by a variety of stakeholders and partner organizations. It is guided by a council established for this purpose -- called the Quality Education and Care Council -- which is staffed through the First Years Institute.


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EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Early Childhood Development
K-12 Public Education
Higher Education
Recruiting and Retaining Talent

INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT
Bioscience Industry Development
Music Industry Development
Minority Business Development

PUBLIC SAFETY
Operation Safe Community and
Police and Sheriff Department Accreditation

SPECIAL INITIATIVES
Memphis Fast Forward
Government Efficiency