Childcare is Education’s Doubles Partner: What We Can Do to Support the Travis County CARES Initiative

I was nine years old when I discovered my passion for tennis and that moment greatly shaped my sense of self and provided me with a supportive community to help me succeed. Since establishing my foundation back in 2000, as an 18 year old, I have dedicated my entire adult life to kindling that same spark in kids through the Andy Roddick Foundation’s nationally acclaimed summer camps and other programs. But through my advocacy, I’ve become aware of a major obstacle holding kids back from reaching their fullest potential.

Texas is facing a childcare accessibility crisis. As someone who is deeply invested in the welfare of our children, I’ve seen firsthand how essential access to high-quality childcare and educational opportunities are for the development of our youth. This year, during National Summer Learning Week from July 15-19, we have an opportunity to advocate for initiatives that ensure all children, especially those from traditionally underserved communities, can succeed.

One such initiative is the Travis County CARES ballot measure, which aims to expand access to affordable high-quality childcare, afterschool and summer care. It drives down costs, increases access to services, and shores up the market for providers. I strongly feel that this is crucial for the well-being of our community and the future of our children.

Every year, the Andy Roddick Foundation keeps kids and teens actively engaged in learning throughout the summer break, a time when statistics show they are at greater risk of falling behind academically. The Travis County CARES initiative wants to give this same access to nearly 10,000 more children in Travis County. Affordable, high-quality, early childhood, afterschool, and summer care helps bridge the gap for children who might otherwise miss out on critical development opportunities.

The summertime is a crucial period because the biggest learning gaps occur from June through August. Cost and access are the two biggest barriers to childcare for families. Children from affluent families can continue their education through various programs and activities, but those from low-income families often fall behind. The CARES initiative addresses this disparity by funding programs that offer educational and developmental opportunities during the summer, afterschool, and other nontraditional hours.

It’s not just about keeping kids busy. There is a wealth of evidence showing the impact childcare programs have on a child’s development and academic growth. Children who have access to afterschool and summer programs see a positive uptick in school attendance, academic success, peer relationships, and confidence. They develop better social skills, perform better academically, and have higher graduation rates. Every child should have a future filled with possibilities. This is the core of my personal mission and why I support the CARES initiative.

For every one child in an afterschool or summer program here in Texas, there are at least three children on the waiting list. In Travis County, data shows that there are only enough free or low-cost afterschool program slots for 13% of students, and summer slots for only 6% of students. That’s simply not good enough.

Studies show that for every $1 invested in quality afterschool and summer programs there is at least a $9 return-on-investment, based on potential benefits of reducing high school dropout rates, teen pregnancy rates, substance use disorder, crime, and delinquency.

A local investment in affordable, quality childcare and out-of-school time programs will result in better outcomes for children, greater workforce participation, family economic stability, and a stronger economy. While children are growing and learning, parents can work the hours they need to provide for their families or go back to school. This means a flourishing, more educated workforce and a brighter future for everyone.

As someone who has dedicated his life to helping children discover their passions and achieve their potential, I urge you to vote in favor of this important measure. We can create a brighter future for all our children. We can end the learning gap and create better opportunities for children today so they will have better options for tomorrow. We owe much of our thanks to the Travis County Commissioners Court for giving this initiative the platform it needs to become a reality. Now it’s up to us. Put August 13 on your calendar and join the coalition at affordablechildcarenow.com to support the Travis County CARES initiative by testifying.