The shortage of childcare seats in the region significantly impacts the community's economic potential and quality of life. This issue not only deprives children of early educational opportunities and a nurturing environment but also creates challenges for both employees and employers. Families struggle to achieve a healthy work-life balance due to limited childcare options, while businesses face difficulties in hiring and retaining skilled employees. To address this challenge, Shelby Eastern Schools is remodeling spaces at Morristown and Waldron Elementary Schools to create dedicated childcare classrooms. These new spaces will add approximately 20 additional childcare seats and subsequently create space for 40 additional pre-kindergarten seats, offering much-needed support to families in the region. Shelby Eastern Schools will provide matching funds by administering the program with 17 part-time childcare providers with average annual wages of $18,000, ensuring the initiative is both effective and sustainable. READI funds will support foundations, exterior enclosure, interior construction, roofing, plumbing, HVAC, interior finishes, fire protection, electrical, special systems, selective demolition, temporary construction provisions, contractor fees, labor, contingency, engineering & design, and bidding/construction admin. The project began July 202 and will conclude in August 2026. Project financing will be secured by December 2025.