A new public-private partnership in East Baton Rouge Parish aims to improve kindergarten readiness for children, regardless of family income. Currently, only about 30% of the 30,000 children under five in the area are entering kindergarten at grade level. Dr. Leigh Griffin, executive director of the nonprofit LaForce, emphasizes that access to high-quality early education can significantly benefit children’s long-term outcomes. Mayor Sharon Weston Broome noted the importance of ensuring access to quality education for all families, while Vernadine Mabry highlighted the initiative’s ability to reach working families. Additionally, teachers and case managers will receive a $5,000 salary increase to attract qualified staff. The initiative will be implemented once it receives approval and funding from federal agencies.
New Initiative to Help More Families Access Early Childhood Education
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