In February and March, Groundwork Ohio hosted a series of Breakfast Briefings for Business Leaders across the state.  Together with local partners including PRE4CLE, we gathered community leaders to discuss the important work of Dr. Katharine Stevens, Resident Scholar of Education Policy Studies at the American Enterprise Institute.  Her recent work with the US Chamber Foundation outlines a clear business case for quality early child care and education.  Together with local business leaders, Stevens outlined the importance of prioritizing early investments to have the greatest impact on Ohio kids and to ensure the successful future of Ohio’s economy.

Understanding the impact of early childhood investments on Ohio’s overall economy is crucial in the midst of our current workforce crisis.  Currently, only 40% of kids come to kindergarten ready to learn, so it’s not surprising that only 43% of Ohio’s workforce has a degree or credential for available jobs.  By 2020, 65% of available jobs will require more than a high school diploma—if Ohio continues at this rate, our workforce will not be able to meet employers’ demands, which will have a significant impact on our state’s economy.

In order to increase school outcomes, it is imperative that Ohio prioritizes investments in the years that have the potential to make the biggest impact—the first five years of life.  By doing so, we can reduce achievement gaps across income level and race, increase school readiness, and gain a $9.20 return per public dollar invested.

The case is clear—Ohio cannot lay the foundation for economic success until it improves school outcomes and the lifelong success of our children.  Together with business leaders, education leaders, and child advocates, we are working to elevate this issue statewide to ensure all Ohio kids have the opportunity to succeed. If you’re interested in learning more about how you can support this work, visit Groundwork’s website.