Ashley beamed with pride as she talked about her son Tre, who just finished first grade. “He received the Fabulous Friend Award,” she said. “He likes to play with everybody.”
Tre is thriving in school, and Ashley knows how important early support was in helping him get there. She began receiving an Early Learning Scholarship when Tre was just four months old—support that’s helped her build a foundation for both of their futures.
“[Scholarships] are so important for families who need care in order to work and go to school,” Ashley shared.
Living on her own since age 17, Ashley was juggling work and rent when the scholarship made it possible for her to continue her education and focus on her mental health. 
“I was able to get my high school diploma,” she said. “Knowing he had care allowed me to be more stress-free and focus on my mental health. It has helped him be prepared for school. When he has regular checkups, his doctor says his development is good.”
Tre’s creativity and curiosity shine through at home. When he’s not in school making new friends, he loves to play with action figures and plushies or go swimming with his grandmother. Ashley’s mom plays a big role in their lives and is a strong advocate for early learning.
“It’s changed my life, too,” her mom said. “I don’t have to worry about her. Kids need early interventions and learning experiences. The opportunity for young moms to have their children go to ‘school’ early is critical!”
Even now, with Tre in elementary school, child care continues to be a vital support—especially during summer break. “You can’t work in the summer if your son is not in school,” Ashley said. “Child care in the summer is so important.”
This summer brings big changes. Ashley is expecting her second child in August and was recently laid off. She’s using this time to prepare for her baby’s arrival and support Tre’s learning. He’ll be attending an extended school program to strengthen his math and reading skills and receive speech therapy to give him a strong start in second grade.
Ashley is also planning her next steps.
“I am really interested in a phlebotomy course that starts in August. I have a heart to work in the medical field. I will also be applying for jobs again knowing there will be a time when I need to get back to work.”
She’s already planning ahead for infant care.
“I heard that waitlists for child care are at least a year long. I’ve reached out to Think Small knowing I need to start planning to cover those costs. I know my mom will help, but this is my responsibility. Finding child care will help me with finding and keeping a job.”
Ashley’s story is one of determination and resilience—and a powerful reminder of how access to early learning opens pathways to realizing one’s full potential.
Think Small administers Early Learning Scholarships to income eligible families living in Hennepin and Ramsey Counties in Minnesota. Learn more about how Early Learning Scholarships help Minnesota families pay for quality early care and education.
