The earlier we see, the more we can shape. Explore how advances in assessment and early intervention are transforming classrooms and systems—equipping educators and leaders to act sooner and create lasting impact for children.

Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) child care is the most common form of care families use—yet it’s often overlooked. This session defines FFN care, explains why families rely on it, and highlights how other states support FFN caregivers as part of their child care systems. We’ll share key data showing FFN’s essential role in meeting community needs.

Get a clear picture of early care and education today—from Pre-K data and school readiness to the role of FFN and home-based care. Learn where the system stands and what’s needed to improve outcomes for children and families.

Join Samantha Cole, Child Care Business Liaison at the North Carolina Department of Commerce, for the latest updates from the North Carolina Task Force on Child Care and Early Childhood Education. This session will provide a timely overview of recent developments, key recommendations, and what’s ahead as North Carolina works to strengthen its early childhood system. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of current momentum, policy direction, and what these updates mean for businesses, communities, and families across the state.

Three families. Multiple child care options. One big decision. In this interactive session, participants help families choose the best fit—while gaining a deeper understanding of FFN care, why it matters, and the barriers providers and families face.

This session traces the evolution of The Pre-K Priority—from early advocacy to the Pre-K Model Cohort Initiative. Learn key lessons from this ARPA-funded effort to strengthen teacher supports, quality, and system alignment—and how it’s shaping outcomes for children and a more sustainable, high-quality Pre-K system in Forsyth County.

Discover how Home Grown—a national collaborative of funders, caregivers, and providers—is advancing a child care system that recognizes and invests in home‑based care. This session provides a clear overview of the national FFN landscape along with state examples of policies and strategies that support FFN caregivers .

Led by child care and early education experts, this panel explores innovative models that engage employers—from on-site child care to partnerships that expand access to high-quality Pre-K. Panelists will share insights from the field, highlight what works (and what doesn’t), and unpack the opportunities for businesses to support working families while strengthening their workforce.

What does it look like when businesses invest in early care and education? This session explores Initiative Excel NC and its work with the Raleigh Chamber, policymakers, and Wake County employers to mobilize business leadership, drive funding, and advance solutions that benefit families and the workforce.

A dynamic conversation on turning early childhood policy into action—highlighting advocacy, alignment, and impact across North Carolina.

Moderated by Courtney Alexander (Program Director, MDC, Inc.) and featuring panelists Logan Rockefeller Harris (Director of Research, NC Budget and Tax Center), Greg Borom (Director, WNC Early Childhood Coalition), Sheila Hoyle (Coordinator, NC Early Education Coalition), and Beth Messersmith (NC Senior Campaign Director, Mom's Rising).