Governor Glenn Youngkin and the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) announced today the release of 3,293 early childhood site quality ratings via VQB5, Virginia’s statewide early childhood measurement system. Along with the Governor’s Building Blocks for Virginia Families initiative which invests $1.2 billion in early childhood slots this biennium, VQB5 enables more Virginia working families to choose and access high quality birth-to-five experiences that prepare their children for kindergarten.

A group of state lawmakers, officials and experts have been discussing a funding formula for early childhood education. Right now, Virginia does not automatically include additional funding for state-subsidized child care in each two-year budget cycle. Additionally, the state constitution requires investments for K-12, but not in early childhood education. Advocates say developing a formula would send a powerful message: that Virginia recognizes the importance of early childhood education.

A new report from the Virginia Business Roundtable on Early Education is urging major changes to the state's childcare system as families prepare for back-to-school season while facing significant challenges finding affordable, quality care.

With federal funds from the American Rescue Plan gone, some states have established trust funds dedicated to early care and education.

Launched in 2024 to support Virginia Business Roundtable for Early Education (VBREE) efforts, the Shovel Ready Virginia Task Force sought to more deeply understand the root causes of persistent gaps in child care supply, specifically in (1) the physical spaces (environments, classrooms, and facilities) and (2) an early educator pipeline. After conducting a 12-month exploration of strategies and solutions that specifically address these gaps, the Task Force has endorsed this report outlining recommendations to advance its priorities for child care progress across all regions in Virginia.