Eleven million children younger than age five are in some form of child care in the United States. That is a pretty staggering number when you consider the cost of child care in this country – on both the family and provider sides of the equation.

Earlier this week, the House voted 359-64 and approved S. 1177 (the “Every Student Succeeds Act”), a measure that would reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) for the first time since 2002, ending an eight year effort to rewrite the legislation that was known as “No Child Left Behind.”  The Senate is expected to vote on this measure next week, where it’s expected to handily pass and head to President Obama for signature shortly after.  The White House has publicly endorsed S. 1177.

Our thoughts and prayers are with those in the San Bernardino community. As we reflect on the events of the past twenty four hours we are yet again reminded of the need to be ever-prepared and vigilant.

Three states will be selected to help increase the capacity of CCR&Rs to serve their communities during a crisis.

Today, Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) released its new strategic plan for FY 2016- 2019. The plan envisions a high quality, affordable child care system that is accessible by every family in the United States.

Over the past 18 months, Child Care Aware® of America staff and Public Policy committee has surveyed, interviewed, and conducted focus groups with parents of young children, grandparents, national child advocacy organizations, and state and local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies. During those conversations it was underscored that child care is an essential building block of any community and that investments in child care are investments in our children, our economy, and our future.