From Crowded to Coordinated: Examining the Governance of Nevada's Early Childhood System

Nevada’s Early Childhood Systems (ECS) are intricate, making them difficult to navigate not only for state leaders, but parents.

Our research shows that a fragmented system is inefficient, complicating resource allocation and limiting access for those in need. Strong ECS systems are crucial for Nevada’s children and parents, as our analysis indicates early investments lead to long-term benefits like reduced societal costs and increased economic contributions as well-served children become adults.

Nationally, ECS is fragmented but well-resourced, meaning better coordination could enhance services like childcare, healthcare, and economic support. Our report suggests empowering a single entity to manage ECS in Nevada, ensuring collaboration between federal, state, local, and private stakeholders.

The Guinn Center’s report, funded by a grant from The Children’s Cabinet, includes:

• 30+ strategies to streamline ECS governance, based on research and examples from other jurisdictions;
• A phased implementation framework;
• An inventory of key ECS entities with their budgetary and regulatory roles, and;
• Best practices from other states and nations to improve Nevada's ECS governance.

The Guinn Center hosted a "first look" webinar to discuss the findings of the report and address audience questions. Watch the webinar on-demand here.