A 10-year plan for North Carolina’s youngest children: ‘Invest Early, Build Together’
EdNC's updates on early childcare and early literacy
Hello, Early Bird readers! This is Mebane, EdNC’s CEO and Editor-in-Chief. I am taking the lead on Early Bird, which is expanding to include literacy. This year, Amy Rhyne, the former senior director of the Office of Early Learning at the N.C. Department of Public Instruction, will be writing for EdNC. You can get to know Amy and read her articles here.
Mapping change is among the hardest exercises of leadership.
This week, the Invest Early NC collaborative released its 10-year plan for our youngest children. As the plan moves into being operationalized, I want to honor the leadership of Dr. Ereka Williams, Russ Altenburg, Meka Sales, and Ricky Hurtado, along with all the philanthropists who have been part of charting a path to a better future for our youngest kids, readers, learners, and leaders to be. My thanks also to Amber Payne and Katie Reed who have devoted countless hours to envision a plan this state and all of us can be proud of.
Invest Early, Build Together — learn more, share the plan, and get involved.
“Progress will take all of us,” says the collaborative.
Here are some ways you can get involved:
- Your voice matters. Complete this survey to inform the advocacy plan.
- Your leadership matters. Spread the word about Invest Early, Build Together by sharing the new website and 10-year plan via social media, newsletters, or by talking about it with others.
- Your commitment matters. Sign up for this Invest Early NC email to stay connected.
Want to learn more? The next Invest Early NC partner convening is on Oct. 23, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the McKimmon Conference and Training Center in Raleigh.
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Legislative Updates
The long session begins in January 2027, and advocates are gearing up. The statewide EarlyWell coalition met this week to chart its 2027 policy course. Here is more information.
News & Research
Taking flight! Opportunities to spread your wings
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