Louise Stoney, a veteran in the field of early care and education for over 35 years, co-founded Opportunities Exchange (OppEx) about 15 years ago. Her focus has been on modernizing the business model of childcare to ensure financial feasibility and high-quality programs. In this episode of “Continuing the Conversation,” she talks with Aaron Merchen, Senior Director of Early Childhood Education Policy and Programs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, about the importance of understanding the core financial and programmatic drivers to achieve desired outcomes.
The Child Care Desert and Data Issues
Stoney discusses the inadequacy of current data used to define childcare deserts. She points out that the data on licensed capacity is theoretical and often misleading. The real need is for precise data on actual vacancies and enrollment in early care and education programs. Stoney states, “We need to know how many vacant seats are available … regardless of who funds that program, regardless of who …