Toolkit: How to Start an Early Learning Collaborative
This toolkit focuses on starting a state-funded early learning collaborative (ELC) program. Learn about the different types of state-funded pre-K programs and what steps you should take when considering starting a specific program. Being able to operate a state-funded collaborative pre-K program is dependent on state funding appropriated by the legislature. The application process for starting an ELC is managed by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE).
How to Start A State-Funded Collaborative Pre-K Program
This toolkit focuses on starting a state-funded collaborative pre-K program.
How to Start A State-Funded Collaborative Pre-K Program: Training Guide
This training guide assists communities in developing a plan for a new blended pre-K program.
Last updated in April 2025
Authors
Rachel Canter, Executive Director, 2008-2025
Angela Bass, Deputy Director of Policy, 2014-2019
Micayla Tatum, Director of Early Childhood Policy
SEE MORE REPORTS & PUBLICATIONS
Learn about the five policy priorities for early education in Mississippi that we believe will create a stable and interconnected early childhood system for families, children, and educators.
Mississippi First's "2024 Pre-K in Mississippi: Briefing Book" analyzes the state's pre-kindergarten programs, covering history, types, costs, and improvements.
Survey insights into Mississippians' views on early childhood education and its role in shaping children's futures.
A detailed analysis of public and non-public pre-K access in Mississippi in 2017-2018.
Examination of Mississippi’s pre-kindergarten programs, focusing on accessibility, quality, and recommendations for growth.
Blended pre-K models allow communities to offer more high-quality pre-K seats without creating additional financial burdens. By strategically using federal and state funds, school districts and Head Start grantees can increase teacher pay, enhance classroom resources, and improve early learning outcomes all while expanding access to families. Who Should Use This Toolkit? School district leaders and superintendents exploring pre-K expansion. […]
In 2013, Mississippi First co-authored the Early Learning Collaborative Act of 2013, establishing the first state-funded pre-K program in Mississippi. Transforming Pre-K in Mississippi tells the remarkable story of the early learning collaboratives after a decade of national sucess and looks to their future in Mississippi. Authors Rachel Canter, Executive Director, 2008-2025 Micayla Tatum, Director […]
Mississippi First began publishing a How To Start A Pre-K Series in 2018. How To Start A Title I Funded Pre-K Program is the second in the series used to advocate increased access to pre-K in Mississippi. Authors Rachel Canter, Executive Director, 2008-2025 Angela Bass, Deputy Director of Policy, 2014-2019
As any fourth grader knows, last in line is an awful place to be. But for Mississippi’s public school fourth graders, last in line in reading and math achievement isn’t a once-in-a-while woe; it is a recurring nightmare. Mississippi has tied for last nearly every year on the National Assessment for Educational Progress (NAEP), also […]