You may have heard in the news that child care is a struggling business and that there is a severe shortage not only in Door County but throughout Wisconsin. What you may not realize is that the current funding model where parents pay tuition that is supposed to cover the costs of running the business is no longer viable. It costs so much more to operate a child care center these days and young families are already paying more for child care than a mortgage payment or typical college tuition. Most child care centers in operation today have a 1% -2% profit margin. When the unexpected happens, their only solution is to raise tuition even higher or close.
The summit will feature national, state and local speakers addressing the importance of child care, early brain development, the economic issues surrounding childcare, and the return on investment that is possible with strategic planning for a long term, sustainable future.
We know that child care is essential for a viable work force and a vibrant community and we know it will take a multifaceted approach to achieve solutions. That’s why your presence is so important. When smart leaders gather together and are given all the information, they’re more likely to come up with creative solutions that best fit our particular and unique community.
