Crawfordsville, Indiana, like many communities, has faced significant challenges with access to affordable and quality childcare. This issue has impacted the ability of working parents to participate fully in the workforce, affecting local businesses and the broader community.
On this episode of “Continuing the Conversation,” Aaron Merchen, Senior Director of Early Childhood Education Policy and Programs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, speaks with Mayor Todd Barton of Crawfordsville, Indiana, to discuss the importance of early childhood education in community development and economic growth.
Child Care Obstacles in Crawfordsville
Mayor Barton understands the significant challenges the city faces with both the quantity and quality of childcare options. Indiana University has designated Crawfordsville as a childcare desert, with less than 3% of children enrolled in quality early childhood education programs. He notes that the lack of childcare is a major barrier to workforce participation, impacting local businesses and families. “The business of childcare is kind of a broken model, and it …