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
Help us connect childcare providers to low-cost health benefits: Vote for MELA in the MIT Solve Challenge!
Learn more about how MELA is working to make employer-provided benefits possible for the childcare sector.
Executive Director Dr. Angela Bass transitions to new role, Deputy Director Biz Harris to take role of Interim Executive Director.
The Mississippi Early Learning Alliance has bittersweet news to share: our founder and Executive Director, Dr. Angela Bass, will be transitioning out of her role with MELA and pursuing an…
Over 100 early childhood professionals made our first Mississippi Early Learning Resources conference a success!
Thank you to our attendees, sponsors, presenters, and vendors for making our first shared services conference a great event!
Recruiting Child Care Providers to Make Recommendations for a Statewide Quality Improvement System
Early education advocates and professionals recognize provider-led quality recommendations as a critical part of building a state-of-the-art child care system.
Learn Tips on the Business of Child Care from the MS Small Business Development Center
We know that childcare providers wear many hats – educator, caregiver, and often: small business owner. Running a successful small business is frequently a learning experience, and the Mississippi Small…
Register Now for Mississippi Early Learning Resources Conference!
Our first annual Shared Services conference is on Saturday, June 11, 2022 from 8:00am – 5:00pm at the Eagle Ridge Conference Center in Raymond, Mississippi. Childcare providers, directors and other…