Quality Early Learning Programs Provide Big Boost to Kansas Businesses, Report Shows

Business leaders gather at early learning center to discuss how investments in early learning programs generate significant short-term economic activity

MEDIA ALERT: Press Conference at Johnson County Community College Tuesday, April 10 at 10 AM

OVERLAND PARK, Kan., April 5, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Four prominent Kansas business leaders will release a report on Tuesday, April 10 showing that investments in high-quality early care and education provide a surprisingly big boost to local businesses in Kansas as the state continues its recovery from the economic recession – generating more economic activity than most other sectors in the state.

During a news conference at Hiersteiner Child Development Center, the group will highlight findings in an America's Edge report that investments in high-quality early care and education generate immediate sales of local goods and services and help ensure long-term economic security in Kansas. The business leaders also will note that such investments are likely to generate even higher returns in Missouri, which will be the focus of a later study.

The business leaders will urge Kansas legislators to dedicate proceeds of the Master Tobacco Settlement, approximately $56 million in FY2012, to early education programs like Early Head Start, Parents as Teachers and Tiny-K. Following the news conference, the business leaders will read books with the child care center's students.

WHAT:  Press conference detailing the short- and long-term positive economic impact of quality early learning programs on Kansas' economy.

WHEN:      10 a.m. April 10, 2012

WHERE:    Hiersteiner Child Development Center, Johnson County Community College, Room 128, 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 66210. Parking is available.                 

WHO:
Neal Sharma; CEO, Digital Evolution Group
Dr. Terry Calaway; President, Johnson County Community College
Jonathan Freiden; CEO, U.S. Toy/Constructive PlayThings
Tyler Nottberg; CEO, U.S. Engineering Company

LOGISTICS: Media availability will follow the organized presentation, including photo opportunities with the students and business leaders.  Research reports and DVDs with B-roll footage will be available.

SOURCE America's Edge