Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt has launched the Future-Ready Child Care Tour to address North Carolina's ongoing child care challenges. The first stop was at LeafSpring School in Charlotte, where Hunt met with child care providers and families to gather input on strategies to improve access and affordability, as per Lieutenant Governor Hunt website.
Hunt was joined by school co-owner Rhonda Rivers, Smart Start Mecklenburg CEO Mike Blackwelder, legislators, and local officials. During the visit, Hunt stated that many families in North Carolina struggle to find and afford quality child care, and emphasized the need for solutions.
As part of her Future-Ready North Carolina policy platform, Hunt supports increased investment in early childhood education and efforts to strengthen the early education workforce. She currently serves on both the State Board of Education and the Community College Board, positions that align with her focus on preparing students for future careers and college.
Hunt also discussed the state’s Tri-Share program, which splits child care costs among employers, the state, and families. This program is scheduled to end in 2026 unless additional funding is secured. Rhonda Rivers acknowledged Hunt’s platform for highlighting the importance of early educators in the state.
In addition to the tour, Hunt is co-chairing the Governor's Task Force on Child Care and Early Education with Senator Jim Burgin. The task force aims to address financial, workforce, and structural issues affecting North Carolina’s child care system and to develop long-term solutions.
