The Daniels Fund approved a grant request for the Early Education Partnership in the amount of $300,000 to help fund the development of the Early Childhood Learning Center in the Cheyenne Business Park. Excitement reigns as this news put the capital campaign over the one million dollar mark. “We have reached $1.4 million dollars in investment pledges and in-kind donations from the Cheyenne and Laramie County community,” reported Janet Tilton, EEP Board President.

“We were impressed by the extensive community support including the donation of the land from Cheyenne LEADS. Our research shows the critical importance of enriched early learning environments for young children to assure success in school and life,” said Sparky Turner, Program Officer for the State of Wyoming for Daniels Fund. “We understand the importance of coming to the table early to assist in the development and construction phase, and look forward to a long relationship with the partnership,” she continued.

Once the early learning facility is open, many parents will be assisted by funding through the Child Care Development Fund dollars through the Department of Family Services, and may qualify to have the cost of their child care partially paid for while they work or attend college. The Early Education Partnership scholarship funds will further assist in offsetting in the cost of care for eligible families.

“We see it as a win, win, win situation for everyone,” said Cheryl Selby, Project Manager. “Children will be in an enriched learning environment. Research proves this will have positive long-term benefits for them in school and in life. Parents will only pay for the hours of care they actually need. Scholarship and CCDF dollars will help offset costs for those who need and qualify for financial assistance. Children will enter school ready to learn. Businesses will have decreased absences and increased recruitment and retention. And, society benefits when we have reduced grade retention, reduced need for special education services, reduced crime, and an increase in the number of students who are having success in school! Students who are in an enriched preschool learning environment buy more cars and houses, pay more taxes, and spend less time receiving assistance. Everybody wins! This is a beneficial project for everyone in Laramie County!”