In Collier County, a new initiative led by the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF) aims to transform early learning. The alliance seeks to address the pressing issues faced by families searching for quality early educational programs. According to NCEF, only 44% of kindergarteners enter school ready to learn, while 60% of third graders demonstrate proficiency in reading. The organization aspires to make Collier County the first in the nation where all children are prepared for school success.
Maria Jimenez-Lara, CEO at NCEF, highlighted the current challenges: “Too many Collier County families are struggling to find and afford quality early learning programs, which directly impacts both our workforce and the future success of our children. This report confirmed what we’ve heard from parents and providers—there simply aren’t enough options, especially for infants and toddlers. With future investments, we’re taking a major step toward changing that.”
The study reveals 73% of early learning providers face waitlists due to full capacity, with affordability posing a major hurdle, as over 60% of parents identify cost as a significant obstacle. Workforce shortages and high turnover of early childhood educators further destabilize the centers, impacting quality and accessibility.
To combat these issues, the study suggests enhancing teacher incentives, addressing transportation and language challenges, and introducing community-based wraparound service models. Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, remarked on the broader impacts: “These findings reinforce that child care access is not just a family issue—it’s an economic one. When parents can’t find care, they can’t work, and that affects businesses across Florida. By making these targeted and measurable investments, NCEF ensures that Collier’s workforce, both now and in the future, is stronger.”
The analysis and subsequent roadmap will direct how NCEF’s $8 million investment is allocated to enhance early learning programs across Collier County. Efforts will focus on increasing access, strengthening the educator workforce, and ensuring affordability, particularly for underserved families.
Makayla Buchanan, Director of Early Learning & Literacy at the Florida Chamber Foundation, affirmed, “These investments signal that Collier’s leaders are serious and are focused on what matters. By implementing targeted interventions, NCEF is addressing today’s challenges and laying the foundation for long-term, sustainable improvements in Collier County’s early learning system as today’s learners are tomorrow’s earners.”
For further information or to review the complete report, visit the Florida Chamber’s website.
