Summit to focus on future of early childhood education

Oct 12, 2026
| Posted in
Liberty Memorial with Kansas City skyline behind

Across the Kansas City region, there is growing momentum around the importance of expanding access to quality early childhood education. Research continues to highlight the connection between early childhood opportunities, workforce participation and long-term economic vitality, while families, employers and communities face ongoing challenges related to the availability and affordability of care.

To build on these efforts, MARC and partners are convening civic and business leaders to discuss what’s at stake and the role of civic and business leaders in building the system children, families and our region need to thrive.

The summit will provide an opportunity to build a shared understanding of the current landscape, discuss emerging priorities and help inform the path forward for early childhood education in the Kansas City region.

“Access to affordable quality childcare is a critical community-wide issue that requires input from both private sector decision makers and public policymakers to solve,” said MARC Director of Early Learning Toni Sturdivant. “The upcoming summit is the space for the leaders in our region to guide a much-needed plan for economic sustainability through a more robust early learning system.”

MEETING DETAILS

Unlocking Kansas City’s Future: An Early Childhood & Economic Opportunity Summit 
Monday, Nov. 9
9-11 a.m.
Kauffman Foundation Conference Center
4801 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110

This event is free, but registration is required.