Title
Receive a presentation from Staff on the funding request from Partnership for Children to support early childhood programs in Chatham County
Abstract
Introduction & Background: As part of the Early Childhood Action Plan, the Partnership for Children identified key findings/challenges and, through engagement with parents, caregivers, providers, and community leaders, created a strategic framework to address the challenges.
Discussion & Analysis: One of the challenges identified in the ECAP was critical workforce challenges. The Partnership for Children has requested funding totaling $799,002 in order to launch a targeted Compensation Pilot Program as outlined in the ECAP’s Fiscal Analysis.
The Partnership states “This pilot will be modeled after the existing childcare subsidy structure but shifts the focus to educator compensation. Under this program, participating providers will receive reimbursement based on the number of subsidy-eligible children enrolled in each classroom. Reimbursement rates will be calculated using the Child Care Subsidy Market Rate Study
(https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Child-Care-Subsidy/Market-Rate-Study) for early childhood educators, adjusted per classroom. To ensure funds directly support the workforce, providers will be required to use the reimbursement to supplement educator salaries and/or provide benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, or paid leave. This flexibility supports the recruitment and retention of qualified educators by addressing both wages and workplace well-being. The pilot offers a sustainable, scalable model that values the essential work of early educators while supporting access to quality care for families who need it most.”
Additionally, the Partnership states “we are actively pursuing a combined total of up to $100,000 in supplemental funding related to workforce development initiatives.” This additional funding is separate and apart from the $799,002 that is being requested of the County.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: This request relates to the Plan Chatham goal “Provide equitable access to high-quality education, housing, and community options for all.” This request would increase access to high-quality education.
Budgetary Impact: There is no budgetary impact on receiving this presentation. The funding requested by the Partnership for Children totaled $799,002 which was not included in the FY2025-2026 annual operating budget.
Recommendation/Motion Receive a presentation from Staff on the funding request from Partnership for Children to support early childhood programs in Chatham County.