To support a transformational shift in the system of early learning due to the pandemic, the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation has launched the Barancik Early Learning Initiative (BELI). The foundation will lead efforts to transform the early learning model by focusing on leadership development for center directors, the recruitment and retention of preschool teachers, and enhanced behavioral health supports in early learning classrooms. The foundation worked closely with the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County, YMCA of Southwest Florida, the University of Florida and Kempton Research and Planning on BELI's research and development. With data in hand, four key areas of investment were identified: preschool leadership, behavioral support, teacher workforce pipeline, and public policy.

In tandem with these efforts, Barancik Foundation granted $408,000 to the YMCA of Southwest Florida early learning program to boost staffing and become accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The organization has become one of the region’s largest childcare providers and could potentially serve a sector hub for shared services and other economies of scale that will benefit other providers in the region.

 In the coming months, the foundation will work with the Early Coalition of Sarasota County in the coming months to provide retention incentives for childcare teachers who have stuck through the difficult pandemic years. The initiative will also kick off a region-wide teacher recruitment campaign to attract more individuals to the sector.

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