The Kansas Children's Cabinet convened on September 4, 2025, to discuss critical early childhood education initiatives, particularly focusing on the challenges and solutions surrounding childcare accessibility in rural areas. The meeting highlighted the efforts of Little Learners Childhood Connections, a Head Start program serving multiple counties, including Clay, Cloud, Ottawa, Republic, Washington, and recently, Gary County.

Audrey Wade, the executive director of Little Learners, shared insights into the organization's operations and the pressing need for childcare services in these regions. With a background in healthcare compliance, Wade transitioned to this role post-COVID, emphasizing the importance of providing quality early childhood education to families, especially those living in poverty.

The organization is fully grant-funded, relying on various federal and state grants, including the Kansas Early Head Start home-based grant and the childcare partnership grant. Wade noted the difficulty in finding childcare providers willing to partner with them, which led to the establishment of their own classroom in Clay Center. This initiative aims to address the significant shortage of childcare options, particularly for families who struggle to find affordable and reliable care.

Wade explained that the Early Head Start classrooms cater to children aged 0 to 3 and are offered free of charge to families, enabling parents to seek employment while ensuring their children receive essential early education. The meeting underscored the broader implications of these efforts, as access to quality childcare is crucial for economic stability and child development in rural communities.

In addition to her role at Little Learners, Wade also serves as the municipal court judge in Clay Center, where she addresses issues related to teen drinking and smoking, further illustrating her commitment to the well-being of children and families in her community.

The discussions at the Kansas Children's Cabinet meeting reflect a growing recognition of the need for enhanced support and resources for early childhood education, particularly in underserved areas. As the panel continues to explore solutions, the focus remains on ensuring that all families have access to the childcare services necessary for their children's development and their own economic opportunities.