Leadership San Antonio (LSA) Class 50 recently convened for its fourth Class Day, focused on the critical connection between early childhood education, family stability and workforce development in San Antonio.
Throughout the day, participants engaged with leaders from the civic, nonprofit, healthcare and education sectors to better understand how early childhood experiences shape long-term outcomes for children, families and the broader community.
The day began at Pre-K 4 SA with an overview of the city’s early childhood landscape presented by Early Matters Executive Director Mark Larson and Peter J. Holt, gubernatorial appointee and Chair of the Texas Task Force on the Governance of Early Childhood Education and Care. Following a tour led by Pre-K 4 SA President and CEO Sarah Baray, Ph.D., class members explored the importance of access to high-quality early learning opportunities and the lasting impact those experiences have on workforce readiness and economic mobility.
Later, United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County hosted an ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) simulation that offered participants a firsthand look at the difficult financial realities many working families face every day. The exercise highlighted the complex trade-offs families often must make involving childcare, housing, healthcare, transportation and employment.
Dr. Lizette Gomez presented on the science of early childhood development and the profound influence those formative years have on cognitive, emotional and social outcomes. Participants visited organizations working to address these challenges through direct services and innovative partnerships, including YWCA San Antonio, CHRISTUS Children's and Madonna Center.
The day also included an exclusive taping of Texas Public Radio’s “The Source,” scheduled to air May 21. The panel discussion focused on the shared responsibility leaders have in creating systems and opportunities that allow children and families to thrive, regardless of circumstance.
The day concluded at The DoSeum, where participants reflected on a central theme that resonated throughout the experience: a child’s future should not be determined by the challenges their family may be facing. Leadership San Antonio continues to encourage participants to use their influence across industries, organizations and neighborhoods to help strengthen the future of the community.