"Make it Monday" forum - Starting Strong: Early Childhood, Literacy, and Anchorage’s Future Workforce

School readiness doesn’t start in kindergarten — it begins at birth. This presentation will spotlight how Anchorage’s early childhood services lay the foundation for long-term educational success and workforce readiness, with a special focus on early literacy and home-based programs.

Best Beginnings and its partners will share an overview of the early childhood landscape in Anchorage and the critical role that early childhood programs play in preparing children to enter school ready to learn. Attendees will learn how an ecosystem of evidence-based programs (such as Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Alaska, early intervention services, quality child care, and home-visiting programs) support families during the most developmentally important years, long before formal schooling begins.

The presentation will highlight recent work of the Anchorage Early Childhood Coalition and Dolly Week, a statewide celebration of reading and connection. Speakers will share how local employers can be part of the solution. From building family-friendly workplace policies and literacy-rich environments to employee support programs that strengthen early learning at home, businesses have a meaningful role to play in ensuring Anchorage’s children and our future are set up for success.

Presenters:

• Amie Collins – Executive Director, Best Beginnings and Co-Chair of the Anchorage Early Childhood Coalition
• Amy Simpson – Executive Director, Program for Infants & Children and Co-Chair of the Anchorage Early Childhood Coalition
• Jessie Nesset – Director of Early Learning Services for the Anchorage School District

PLUS, a member presentation by SparkStory Marketing.
 

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