Helping Mississippi’s Children
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.
Early years most important
Development in the early years of a child’s life are the most important for their lifelong health and success. Strong development in the first 8 years of life can build a foundation for future learning, health, and economic stability.
Holistic development
That’s why 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
We believe that the most impactful change can happen (1) when decision-makers engage with communities and understand the complexities that impact the lives of children and (2) when a diverse group of stakeholders – state leaders, practitioners, and community members – work together to create solutions and drive for change.
Latest News, Events & Resources
Capitol Day Rescheduled
We are thrilled with the number of people who have registered to attend Early Childhood Development Capitol Day this year. Due to several unforeseen circumstances, we have made the difficult…
Child Care Clean + was a big Success!
Child Care Clean + (also referred to as CCC+) is a program made possible through House Bill 1782, which appropriated $3 million to the North Mississippi Education Consortium to distribute…
MELA LAUNCHES 3 YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN
Jackson, MS – December 7th, 2020 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Join Mississippi Early Learning Alliance (MELA) for a virtual LUNCH & LAUNCH on Tuesday, December 8th via Facebook Live to learn…
MELA Welcomes April May as New Director of Coalitions and Programs
Jackson, MS – November 5th, 2020 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Mississippi Early Learning Alliance is thrilled to announce that early learning advocate, April May, has joined their team as the new…
Join us for 2021 Capitol Day
This year’s virtual Early Childhood Capitol Day has been rescheduled for Wednesday, February 3rd, 2021 will bring Mississippians together to advocate, learn about, and support our state’s young children. Through…
MELA Executive Director Named to MDE Board
We at MELA are thrilled to share that our Executive Director, Dr. Angela S. Bass was appointed to the Mississippi Department of Education by Governor Reeves. We know firsthand how…