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
Join us for the Mississippi Forum for the Future Summit on May 18th, 2023
Hold Thursday, May 18th, 2023 in your calendar because you’re going to want to be at the Forum for the Future Summit! This event will be held in the greater…
Biz Harris named as new Executive Director for the Mississippi Early Learning Alliance
The Board of the Mississippi Early Learning Alliance is thrilled to share that Biz Harris has been promoted to the role of Executive Director.
Early Childhood Capitol Day sees business leaders, early childhood professionals rally around shared policy agenda.
Business leaders, early childhood professionals, healthcare providers, and legislators gathered at Early Childhood Capitol Day. Event organizers shared four key policies to support young children, their families, and Mississippi’s current and future workforce.
Join Us on January 18th: Early Childhood Capitol Day Highlights Policies to Strengthen Mississippi’s Workforce
The fourth annual Early Childhood Capitol Day explores the positive “domino effect” that policy supports for young children, their families, and early childhood professionals can have on the economy.
Check our Progress: Read our Latest Annual Report!
The Annual Report is designed to summarize our activities and accomplishments during our last reporting period (July 2021 – June 2022), as well as forecast some of our upcoming projects, initiatives, and strategies.
Advocacy Workshop for Childcare Providers
This interactive workshop will give you the skills and information you need to engage effectively with policymakers and drive the changes you want to see.