Laker Prep Early Childhood

Laker Prep is becker county's largest non-profit based childcare organization advocating for and serving families with high quality programming for children ages birth to five. Developed to fill a gap in year-round, all-day care, Laker Prep started in 2011 serving 10 families and quickly expanded to its current level of 90 families. Focused on serving the heart of its community, Laker Prep embraces diverse access to its wide range of services. Currently, 27% of children at Laker Prep receive subsidies, and 25% of enrolled children identify as non-white. Families currently served are in manufacturing, education, trades, retail, tourism, government, medical and human services fields. Standing firm in the belief that "big success starts small," Laker Prep staff and leadership are devoted to providing multiple avenues to the quality programming that rears the next generation of kind, successful, and thoughtful community leaders. Partnerships with external service providers ensure that children with all levels of need work towards developmental milestones and move into kindergarten with the skills necessary to be successful. Taking a comprehensive view of growing and stabilizing the childcare industry, Laker Prep focuses on childcare advocacy and reform, engaging in regional and statewide forums, task forces, and initiatives. Laker Prep directors are also committed to mentoring and developing the next cohort of childcare practitioners. They partner with the local high school in creating opportunities for students to earn a child development associate and current Laker Prep staff are supported and incentivised to seek additional qualifications and certifications. Integrating itself in the network of family focused community organizations, Laker Prep supports and provides community activities, events, and resources to the area as a whole. As support for the organization increases, so too will the offerings for families around the region. Big success for Laker Prep means big success for the community, and it all starts small, with support from funders, community members, and all those willing to invest in the future.