Put Massachusetts Kids First is a broad-based coalition of more than two dozen organizations across the Commonwealth, including Wheelock College, focused on improving outcomes for children by stabilizing and strengthening the workforce that engages with young children who can most benefit from qualified educators.

The efforts of Put MA Kids First are focused on advocating for high quality early education and out-of-school time programs for the children of the Commonwealth.

Since 2001, state funding for community-based early education and care and out-of-school time has not kept pace with inflation, resulting in a reduction of more than $100 million – a 50% decrease in the state’s commitment to its youngest scholars.  Strengthening community-based early education and care should be an integral part of the Commonwealth’s long-term plan to invest in human capital to support growth and quality goals.