Public Policy & Research
For more than 39 years, thread has helped Alaskans to advocate and understand how child care supports not only our youngest children but the overall state. thread believes a strong child care system is possible with sustainable policy and funding solutions.
Challenges
Access
That is more than 25,000 Alaskans that could fill the workforce demand for our state.
Without emergency covid relief funds, many more child care programs would have closed. That is why sustainable state funding is needed now to keep programs open and expand the number of children cared for.
Affordability
Child care costs as much or more than college tuition especially for infant and toddler care.
Expanding eligibility would make child care more affordable for more families.
Quality
Early educator
The early childhood education workforce performs valuable work yet is one of the lowest compensated professions, making less than a gas station attendant.
When families are unable to work due to child care, it directly impacts family life as well as Alaska’s workforce and economy.
Get Resources Specific to You
LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
thread’s policy positions
thread believes all Alaska’s should have access to high-quality, affordable child care. Check out the solutions that could make a difference for Alaska.
BECOME AN ADVOCATE
Advocacy tool kit for you
Join together to raise a powerful, collective voice on behalf of early childhood educators and programs.
RESEARCH & DATA
High-quality child care has big returns
The early care and learning sector accounts for $500 million in economic activity in Alaska pre-pandemic. One out of six workers depend on industry services in order to go to work each day. Wages attributed to these workers are estimated to be more than $2 billion. (Data pre-COVID)
Lend Your Voice!
Help shape the future of child care in Alaska. By raising your voice, you can help ensure all Alaskan’s have access to affordable, high-quality early childhood education.
