July 2022
KC Ready 4s featured in The Hechinger Report
When early childhood programs struggle, nonprofit organizations and foundations often jump in to help. With a lack of adequate federal support, various non-government groups have stepped up — before and during the pandemic — with funds to keep centers open, supplies like masks and books and plans to address long-term challenges, like teacher retention and pay. Continue.
May 10, 2022
Early childhood educator of the year named by KC Ready 4s
KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Kalamazoo County Ready 4s recently announced their 3rd Annual Sandy Standish Excellent Educator Award winner.
Out of over 50 nominations received, the 2022 Sandy Standish Excellent Educator distinction went to Kayla Gonzalez, a teacher at Escuelita Nuevo Horizonte. Continue
June 4, 2021
More Support for Kalamazoo County Early Education Teachers On Its Way
Non-profit providing access to health and wellness benefits to over 300 early educators
KALAMAZOO, MI — It’s no secret the COVID-19 pandemic has hit the early education sector hard. It’s an industry that was already in a precarious position: private providers rely on tuition and subsidies to stay open and even prior to 2020, many operated on razor-thin margins. Those razor-thin margins contribute to the early childhood education staffing crisis: without the ability to pay a living wage or offer health benefits, recruiting and retaining staff remains a problem.
January 28, 2021
Pre-K Teachers Receive Gratitude Bonus from Kalamazoo County Ready 4s After Being
Left out of Michigan K-12 Hazard Pay
100 Kalamazoo County teachers to receive funds from local nonprofit
KALAMAZOO, MI — With recent funding from Kalamazoo Community Foundation’s Community Urgent Relief Fund, local nonprofit Kalamazoo County Ready 4s will be assisting their 50 program partners with a one-time Gratitude Bonus, providing critical funds to Pre-K teachers and assistant teachers. Financial support ranges from $250-$500 for each educator.
