Overview

The need for high-quality Early Care and Learning (ECL) in East Central Indiana (ECI) was an issue before COVID but has worsened since. In response, the Regional Birth-5 Coalition was formed to identify opportunities for improvement The Coalition, comprised of regional ECL professionals, developed a Birth-5 Regional Training, Resource, and Advocacy Connector (TRAC) to combat regional issues. The TRAC will employ professionals to focus on leadership and advocacy, public-facing communication, and training for ECL professionals in ECI. An existing partnership with Ball State University will be leveraged to host this initiative. The Coalition will finalize job descriptions and strategic planning in Q2 2023, to hire TRAC staff in Q3 2023. The staff of the TRAC will be guided and supported by the Coalition, which will serve as an advisory board. A portion of the budget will be allotted to Regional Activity Support, allowing counties to secure resources that solve local ECL problems that fit within the scope of the TRAC’s goals. READI funds will be used to pay salaries and annual benefits in addition to training expenses for care providers. Funds will also support the purchase of computer and technology equipment, and facility rent. READI funds will be matched with funds from Ball State University, Forge Your Path (ECIRP), and in-kind volunteer commitments from the Early Learning Coalition members.