Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend

08/21/2026

If you can turn complex information into clear messaging, juggle multiple deadlines, spot a typo from across the room, and make just about anything look good in Canva… we should talk.

ELC of the Big Bend looking for a creative thinker, strong writer, organized project manager, and collaborative teammate who wants to use their skills to make an impact for children and families as our Communications Manager.

Think this sounds like you? Send your resume and cover letter to [email protected].

08/18/2026

Attention early child care personnel: applications are open for our Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential! Eligible participants can receive:

🆓 FREE professional learning,
🕜 60 inservice hours/6.0 CEUs,
💰 a $1,000 completion stipend,

and much more! This opportunity is open to birth through pre-K early child care personnel (public or private). Learn more about our Fall A 2026 offering and apply at lastinger.link/EmergentMicro7-27-26-FB

08/15/2026

Join Florida’s free at-home reading program!

Submit your New Worlds Reading application for the 2026-27 school year! Eligible families receive free books and activities throughout the school year starting in October. Learn more and apply at www.newworldsreading.com/en/enrollment

08/14/2026

You survived your first week back to school, Big Bend! Just as important as a good morning routine is taking the time to reconnect at the end of the day. Bedtime can be the perfect opportunity to slow down and check in. We’ve suggested a few questions you can ask before lights out to make your child feel heard, supported, and connected.

08/10/2026

Please join us in wishing a very happy work anniversary to Gabby Aboki, our CCR&R Coordinator, as she celebrates four years with ELC of the Big Bend!

Through her work as the Child Care Resource & Referral Coordinator, Gabby helps connect families with the resources and information they need to make informed child care decisions. Her dedication to supporting families and strengthening our early learning community makes a difference every day.

Gabby, thank you for four wonderful years of service to ELC and the families of the Big Bend!

08/09/2026

This week begins the start of school for many Big Bend families! And for our littlest learners heading to kindergarten, it’s a BIG milestone.

Kindergarten readiness is about more than knowing letters and numbers. Everyday skills like following directions, building independence, and navigating routines can help children feel confident and ready for the classroom.

Check out these five skills to practice with your soon-to-be kindergartener as they prepare for their first day!

08/07/2026

And that’s a wrap on Kidpreneur 2026!

After five weeks of learning, creating, practicing and growing, our Kidpreneurs traded their market booths for their best attire as we celebrated an incredible summer at the Kidpreneur Awards Dinner.

This special evening gives our young entrepreneurs the chance to celebrate alongside their families, program partners, and local business leaders who supported them throughout their journey. And in true Kidpreneur fashion, they helped run the show! Our Kidpreneurs served as emcees for the evening, putting the public speaking skills they developed throughout the program into action in front of a room full of supporters.

We also announced our Investor Awards, recognizing one outstanding Kidpreneur from each business category. Throughout the Market, Kidpreneurs were evaluated on customer service, booth presentation, and pricing. Four local investors then selected recipients to receive additional funding to invest back into their businesses, helping these young entrepreneurs continue building long after the summer program ends.

A very special thank you to our 2026 Kidpreneur Investors: Markus Nicolas, Frank Williams, Jake Kiker and Katrina Tuggerson for investing not only in these businesses, but in the confidence, creativity and potential of the young people behind them.

And to our program partners, families, community supporters and everyone who joined us for the Awards Dinner: thank you for making this experience possible.

Most of all, congratulations to our Kidpreneurs. We hope you carry the skills, confidence and entrepreneurial spirit you built this summer wherever you go next. We can’t wait to see what you do with them!

08/06/2026

Today, we had the privilege of recognizing and thanking Ryan Poole for his dedicated service on ELC of the Big Bend’s Board of Directors.

Board members like Ryan generously give their time, expertise, and leadership to help shape a stronger future for the children and families we serve across the Big Bend.

Ryan, thank you for your service and your belief in our mission. We are grateful for the difference you’ve made and wish you all the best in what comes next.

08/05/2026

Looking for Back to School events? Check out our stories for what’s happening across the Big Bend!