The local group, the On Track By 5 Alliance, is partnering with Lafayette Parish schools to enhance the quality and accessibility of early care and education for children aged 5 and under. Shannon Bernard and Michelle Luquette, representatives of the alliance, recently discussed their mission and the importance of early childhood development with Jan Swift on the Discover Lafayette podcast.

Unlocking the Potential of Our Youngest Minds

Prioritizing Early Childhood Development

The On Track By 5 Alliance emphasizes the critical importance of the first five years of a child's life, a period during which 90% of brain development occurs. By focusing on this crucial stage, the alliance aims to lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.Through their collaborative efforts with Lafayette Parish schools, the alliance is working to improve the quality and availability of early care and education options for families in the region. This multifaceted approach includes leveraging funding sources, such as School Readiness Tax Credits and donations from local businesses, to support learning centers and programs.

Expanding Access and Enhancing Quality

The tax credit and On Track programs in Lafayette currently serve learning centers and programs exclusively within Lafayette Parish. To further strengthen their reach, the alliance has applied to become a Childcare Resource and Referral Agency specifically for Lafayette Parish.Within Lafayette Parish, there are 58 publicly funded centers that accept child care tax dollar assistance, as well as over 100 centers in total, collectively serving more than 6,000 children. These centers employ qualified teachers who undergo annual training, and providers are registered with the state, allowing them to care for up to six children from birth to 5 years old.In addition to these community-based programs, several Head Start programs and pre-schools in Lafayette also collaborate with the On Track by 5 initiative, further expanding the network of high-quality early childhood education options.

Fostering Collaborative Partnerships

The success of the On Track By 5 Alliance's efforts is rooted in its ability to forge strong partnerships with various stakeholders, including Lafayette Parish schools, local businesses, and community organizations. By aligning their resources and expertise, the alliance is able to create a comprehensive ecosystem of support for young learners and their families.This collaborative approach not only enhances the quality of early care and education but also ensures that families have access to a diverse range of options that cater to their unique needs and preferences. The alliance's commitment to building these strategic partnerships is a testament to their holistic vision for transforming early childhood education in the region.

Empowering Families and Educators

At the heart of the On Track By 5 Alliance's mission is a deep understanding of the pivotal role that families and educators play in a child's early development. By providing resources, training, and support to both parents and teachers, the alliance aims to empower these key stakeholders to create nurturing, stimulating, and enriching environments for young learners.Through workshops, informational sessions, and ongoing professional development opportunities, the alliance equips educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver high-quality early childhood education. Similarly, the alliance offers guidance and support to families, helping them navigate the complexities of childcare and early learning, and empowering them to make informed decisions that prioritize their child's well-being and growth.By fostering this collaborative partnership between families and educators, the On Track By 5 Alliance is laying the groundwork for a future where every child in Lafayette Parish has access to the resources and support they need to thrive in their formative years.