If there’s one thing we know about Kerrville, it’s that this community doesn’t shy away from tackling big challenges head-on. And on December 17, 2024, at Schreiner University, that’s exactly what happened at the State of Childcare Summit—a morning packed with insightful discussions, fresh ideas, and a shared commitment to solving one of our region’s most pressing issues: childcare accessibility.
The Big Picture: Why Childcare Matters
Imagine trying to run a business when half your workforce is scrambling to find reliable, affordable childcare. Or being a parent who has to choose between a paycheck and a safe place for their child during the workday. That’s the reality for many families, and it’s why this summit was such a big deal.
Bringing together business leaders, civic officials, educators, childcare providers, and community members, the event wasn’t just about talking—it was about finding real solutions to ensure Kerrville’s workforce and economy can thrive.
Key Takeaways: From Talk to Action
So, what came out of this powerhouse gathering? Quite a bit!
🔹 Shining a Light on the Issue – The summit reinforced that quality childcare isn’t just a “parent problem.” It’s a workforce and economic issue that impacts local businesses, employee retention, and even future educational success for kids.
🔹 Learning from the Best – Attendees explored successful childcare models, including innovative solutions from other communities, like Colorado’s Universal Preschool Program. Could Kerrville adopt similar strategies? The wheels are turning!
🔹 Workforce Development for Childcare Providers – Quality care starts with qualified providers. Discussions emphasized the need to invest in the early childhood education workforce to improve staff retention and enhance care quality. After all, if we want great childcare, we need great caregivers.
🔹 Collaboration is Key – Businesses, policymakers, and educators all agreed: solving this issue requires teamwork. The event sparked commitments from local organizations to keep the momentum going and work together on policy advocacy, funding opportunities, and community-driven initiatives.
What’s Next?
This isn’t the end of the conversation—it’s just the beginning. With Kerrville’s leaders and community members fired up and ready to act, expect to see more opportunities for discussion aimed at expanding childcare access and strengthening our local workforce.
The success of this summit proves that when Kerrville comes together, we get things done.
Want to stay in the loop on the next steps? Visit Kerr Economic Development Corporation’s website for updates on how you can be part of the solution.
