With the upcoming conclusion of ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds, the early childhood education industry is at a critical juncture. ARPA dollars were instrumental in creating a robust infrastructure, supporting both providers and families. However, as we transition into a post-ARPA era, we're faced with uncertain funding futures and the pressing need to optimize our resources. The big question now is: How do we determine which programs, age groups, and geographic areas require the most support?
Centralized Data: The Cornerstone of Informed Decision Making
The answer lies in centralized data. By consolidating every piece of program data in a single location, we unlock the potential to understand and address the gaps in our current system. Consolidating Licensing, Quality/QRIS, CCMS, and direct provider inputs creates a comprehensive view of the early childhood education landscape and highlights areas of need.
Real-Time Resource Allocation: Learning from Maryland's Example
One example of data-driven optimization in action comes from Maryland. Maryland Family Network, in partnership with the Department of Education, enlisted Upfront to develop the country's first real-time childcare desert maps. These maps, accessible at Maryland Family Network's LOCATE Map provide a dynamic view of the balance between the number of children and available program spots, broken down by county, congressional districts, and legislative districts. Maryland Family Network uses the maps to consistently evaluate its focus and investment areas across families, providers, and policy advocates.
The data that fuels these maps is updated daily, ensuring that the information reflects the current state of affairs. In the near future, maps like these will evolve to incorporate family search data from Maryland's public childcare finder, LOCATE and call referral data from Resource & Referral organizations. This advancement will enable pinpointing gaps at a more granular level, including factors such as age, subsidy status, and hours of care needed.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Allocation in Uncertain Times
As we move past the ARPA funding era, it's crucial for government agencies and decision-makers in the early childhood education sector to introspect: Are we deploying our time and resources in the areas that need them most? The transition from ARPA funding presents both a challenge and an opportunity. It's a chance to reevaluate, reassess, and realign our efforts based on a data-driven understanding of needs.
