Early Learning Newsletter

Summer 2024

Childcare License Allows Provider to Expand Services

Carmen Grubbs Collins, a well-respected businesswoman in Simpson County who recently obtained her childcare license, is one of many Mississippians who are improving the quality of childcare they offer working parents. Receiving licensure was a significant milestone for Collins, and one she achieved with the support of the Nurturing Homes Initiative, or NHI, program. The NHI program is offered through the Mississippi State University Extension Service and funded by the Mississippi Department of Human Services.

After working with NHI for nearly a year, Collins found the motivation and resources needed to transition from home-based childcare to a fully licensed facility within her community. Read the full story on MSU Extension’s website.

Making Great Strides

When Kash Barnett started preschool, his vocabulary consisted of just five words. But that’s all changed since he enrolled at Gaston Point Head Start in Gulfport. His mom, Diamond Charles, attributes much of his progress to the teachers and the program, which is managed and delivered by the Mississippi State University Extension Service. Visit the MSU Extension Matters story to learn more.

Other News

We are Hiring

Our programs are growing, and we are currently seeking staff to join our team! If you enjoy working in early childhood, we are hiring for the Mississippi LIFT Resource & Referral Network and Head Start program.

To learn more about the positions available and to apply, visit the MSU jobs website.

R&R Mobile Unit

The mobile units are on the road to meet you!

To address the critical need for educational resources and materials for children, the R&R Mobile Units help foster learning experiences and enhance school readiness. These mobile units are deployed in rural communities across the state to help families, community members, and early care and education providers have a range of materials, including equipment for creating homemade classroom resources. Materials include developmentally appropriate resources at no cost.

These mobile units travel statewide, attending community events and offering scheduled visits to help provide resources and support.

If you are interested in reserving the R&R Mobile Unit, please complete the Mobile RR Reservation Form.pdf and email it to msccrr@ext.msstate.edu. For additional questions, please email us or call 662-325-6358.

Williams receives Zacharias Distinguished Staff Award

During MSU’s Staff Appreciation Day on May 17, Head Start teacher, Ms. Cardia Williams, was awarded one of the Zacharias Distinguished Staff Awards. Given out annually, only twelve recipients receive this award each year. Nominees for this award have showcased exemplary professionalism and dedication to MSU by performing beyond the call of duty to improve service and quality. Nominees also serve as role models, demonstrating outstanding accomplishments of significance based on initiative, cooperation, and ability to perform a job successfully. To learn more about this award and other recipients, visit the MSU news item.

R&R Sites Open

Our MSCCR&R sites are expanding statewide! To learn more about our community events and sites that are open, visit our MSCCR&R locations webpage.

Recently opened:

Brandon
Gluckstadt
Long Beach

MSU CDA Credential Program Now Enrolling

The CDA program through MSU Extension is now enrolling our next cohort of participants to start in August 2024!

The CDA (Child Development Associate) program is a widely recognized and valued credential in early childhood education. It allows educators to enhance their knowledge, understanding, and practices for children aged birth to 5. For more information, visit the our CDA webpage.

2024 Mississippi Child Care Market Rate Survey

NHI was honored to help the MSU Social Science Research Center and Mississippi Department of Human Services by providing information related to home-based providers. To learn more and view the full report, visit the MDHS website.