PRESS ADVISORY: Investments in Quality Early Learning Provide Big Boost to Raleigh Economy, New Report Shows

For Immediate Release:

Media Contact: David Carrier

Desk: 202-464-5362

E-Mail: dcarrier@americasedge.org

MEDIA ALERT:

Business Leaders’ Press Conference at Raleigh Pre-school

on Tuesday, November 13 at 10 a.m.

Investments in Quality Early Learning

Provide Big Boost to Raleigh Economy,

New Report Shows

Early care and education investments generate millions in economic activity

for North Carolina businesses and improve future workforce

RALEIGH, NC – Six prominent North Carolina business leaders will release a report on Tuesday November 13 showing that investments in high-quality early care and education provide a surprisingly big boost to local businesses in North Carolina and play an important role in helping the state recover from the economic recession.

During a news conference at the Happy Face Preschool in Raleigh, the group will cite a new America’s Edge report that shows investments in quality early learning are generating immediate sales of local goods and services and contributing to long-term economic growth in North Carolina. The business leaders will urge state and federal policy-makers to prioritize funding for these programs and work to improve their quality. Following the news conference, the business leaders will read books with the school’s students.

WHAT:       Press conference focusing on early learning’s positive and immediate impact on North Carolina economy.

WHEN:       10 a.m. November 13, 2012

WHERE:     Happy Face Preschool

5010 Fort Sumter Road

Raleigh, NC 27606

WHO:        Harvey Schmitt, President and CEO, Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce

                      Rick McNeel; President and CEO, LORD Corporation

                      Machelle Sanders; Vice President of Manufacturing and General Manager, Biogen Idec

                      Tony Marshall; President and CEO, Innovative Systems Group, Inc.

                     Brenda Berg; Founder/Owner, Scandinavian Child, LLC

                     John Metcalf; President, Workforce Systems Associates

                     Susan Gates; National Director, America’s Edge

LOGISTICS: Media availability will follow the organized presentation, including photo opportunities with the children and business leaders.  Research reports and DVDs with B-roll footage will be available.