Charleston Reporter

The Early Learning Action Team and the City of Charleston convened the Early Learning Summit at Trident Technical College today. The event aimed to address the region's shortage of affordable, high-quality childcare, bringing together public and private sector organizations to share insights and discuss solutions.

The summit featured various speakers, presentations, and breakout sessions focusing on issues of quality, accessibility, and affordability in childcare. Celeste Granger, Senior Vice President of Programs and Initiatives at the Chamber, opened the event by highlighting the challenges faced by families and employers due to inadequate childcare options.

Bryan Derreberry, President and CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber, joined Carl Blackstone, President and CEO of the Columbia Chamber, for a business panel moderated by Scott Barhight, Senior Vice President of Government Relations at the Chamber. Both leaders shared their perspectives on how childcare challenges impact caregivers, providers, and the broader business community.

In addition to the business panel discussions, attendees reviewed data from a study conducted in collaboration with the National League of Cities, the City of Charleston, and Tri-County Cradle to Career Collaborative. The study can be accessed online for further details.

The afternoon session included insights from Trident United Way on the ALICE Framework and Childcare Cost. The National League of Cities also facilitated discussions among attendees about potential strategies moving forward.

Events like this summit are crucial to advancing the Chamber’s People First movement. A collaborative effort is essential for making progress in addressing childcare issues across the Lowcountry. The Chamber plans to share research findings by year-end 2024 and outline future steps for improving childcare services in the region.