Nearly 200,000 children enter kindergarten each year in Florida and almost half of them are not “ready” to learn. This is a reality business leaders can contribute to changing–whether through community involvement, family-friendly practices in their business, or using their voices.
Bosses for Babies is an initiative that brings together business champions for early childhood, highlighting the many ways companies can make an impact and inspiring others to take action. These Bosses understand that investing in young children and families is an investment both in their bottom line and in community prosperity.
Are you ready to be a Boss for Babies? Make the commitment that’s right for your business.
The Movement is inviting Florida CEOs to join Bosses for Babies and show their impact on early childhood. Business leaders can make the commitment that’s right for their business and we are ready to support you.
The latest data shows Florida’s kindergarten readiness rate sitting at 53%. This means nearly 90,000 children entering the K-12 system are deemed “unready,” and already falling behind at a critical time in their learning and development. Research tells us it’s difficult to catch up, so we need to do a better job of supporting children and families in the early years.
The Chamber tracks this data on the Florida Scorecard and hosts the Business Alliance for Early Learning so business leaders can speak together with a strong voice for young children.
Our first Boss for Babies, Eddie Gonzalez-Loumiet offers extensive flexibility for employees and promotes a family-friendly workplace.
Mark Wilson is a strong advocate for high-quality early learning, highlighting the importance of these investments for Florida's future prosperity.
Aakash Patel is a business leader, political advocate, and Chair of the Board of Directors for the Early Learning Coaliton of Hilsborough County.
John Birney and his sons own and operate a sucessful financial advising company all while championing early literacy initatives in their community.
Philippe Jeck is a strong advocate for early learning and community investment. He is committed to advocating for family-friendly policies in Florida.
Cressman Bronson and Chad Loar are both PNC Florida leaders, understanding the importance of early learning by the impact of the Grow up Great program
Kelly Flannery’s involvement in the Tampa community runs deep, especially when it comes to mobilizing the business community to support education.
Stephanie Bailes, leads the Cade Museum in Gainesville, FL. She is a strong supporter of early childhood development and supporting community parents.
Mrs. Kapreilian is the CEO of Forty Carrots Family Center in Sarasota, FL. She is dedicated to creating a healthy community by putting parents first.
Ms. Foley sees the importance of supporting families through her leadership. She has dedicated her career to bettering the future of children.
Jeff Jackson, CEO of PGT Innovations, is a leader in production of impact doors and windows. His company provides on-site childcare and healthcare.
Rebecca Massicotte, CEO of Red Fox Delivery, works hard to ensure a family friendly culture with her office staff and over 150 contracted employees.
Heather Siskind, President and CEO of The Jack & Jill Children's Center dedicates herself and her center to helping the community and its families.
Mark Faulkner is committed to the well-being and development of all children. He leads community efforts as the Achieve Escambia chair.
Quint Studer is a Pensacola businessman who spearheaded the effort to make his city the first Early Learning City.
For more information, please email Daniela Villasmil at Daniela.Villasmil@childrensmovementflorida.org.
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From Tampa Bay Parenting: “Readiness doesn’t mean just knowing the academic basics. It means a child has a willing attitude and confidence in the process of learning: a healthy state of mind.” Read the full article here. View more articles here.
From Tampa Bay Times: “The investment is part of a growing business recognition that improving education for preschoolers helps build a more talented and prepared workforce.” Read the full article here. View more articles here.
From Florida Politics: “If we want people back to work quickly after COVID-19, child care must become a priority now.” Read the full article here. View more articles here.
