MELA drives collective impact with diverse stakeholders to achieve systemic change leading to the holistic development of Mississippi children in their first 8 years of life.
The first 8 years of a child’s life are critically important.
During their first years of life, children’s brains and bodies are growing and changing rapidly. Brain development during their early years, paired with the cognitive, social and emotional skills they learn at the same time, will influence their lifelong health and success. The first 8 years of a child’s life can build the foundation for future learning, health, and economic stability.
When our children thrive, our state will thrive.
We believe that improving outcomes for children is a public issue for which everyone is responsible. The holistic development of Mississippi’s children is the single most important accomplishment we can achieve to improve the quality of life in our state.
Working together is the only way to make lasting change.
We believe that the most impactful change can happen when two things happen: first, decision-makers must engage with parents, early childhood professionals, and other community members to understand the complexities of their lives. Second, a diverse group of stakeholders – state leaders, practitioners, business leaders, subject matter experts, and more – must work together to create and implement solutions that meet the needs of children and families in Mississippi.
Latest News, Events & Resources
MELA Staffing Updates: Two New Positions Opening
MELA is bidding a fond farewell to Communications Director Chloe Lake, but looking forward to recruiting new new members to the team!
Reflections on the Forum for the Future Summit
We are grateful to all our Forum for the Future Summit attendees, partners, and speakers who made this event a success! Read on for reflections, resources, and next steps.
Forum for the Future Summit: Featured Speakers
We’re thrilled to have a variety of speakers share their expertise during the Summit!
Register Now for the Mississippi Forum for the Future Summit!
Join us to discuss strategic and tangible ways we can come together to build a state-of-the-art childcare system in Mississippi!
Where are they now? Read updates on our Early Childhood Capitol Day 2023 policy recommendations.
On Capitol Day, we shared four specific policy recommendations with lawmakers and the public. We’re excited to share that we’ve made progress across all four! Read on for specific updates.
Mississippi will receive $30 million over 3 years to improve access to high-quality early care and education programs.
Learn more about the main goals and next steps for the Preschool Development Grant Birth to Five (PDG B-5) Renewal funding.