OUR WHY

All our services are built upon our commitment to serving children and families historically and currently furthest from educational justice – those disproportionately impacted by systemic injustices and facing more significant barriers to resources. These historically underserved groups include children of color (BIPOC), refugees, those facing homelessness, English language learners, children from low-income households, LGBTQ+ students, and children with special needs. Our programs are deeply rooted in culturally affirming, anti-racist/anti-bias, trauma-informed, and strengths-based curricula – where our whole-child approach centers and affirms the lived experiences of students, families, and staff. Launch minimizes barriers by contracting with a service to provide on-demand translation and interpretation in 100+ languages, and we translate key communications and materials into Spanish and other languages as needed. 

Launch’s tiered admission system is one that was designed with our mission in mind. We do not do first come, first serve registration. We ask a number of questions in the registration process designed to give us a whole picture of the family. Using the Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise Levy (Seattle) definition of furthest from educational justice, we offer enrollment for students and families who have 2+ risk factors based on socio-economic background, race/ethnicity, English language learners, families experiencing homelessness, and children with disabilities. We prioritize admission to these students.

Launch accepts DSHS, City of Seattle, and Best Starts for Kids child care subsidies. We do not limit the number of subsidized slots available to children. We work closely with families to find ways to lower the cost of childcare and offer additional support and opportunities throughout the year for families to find additional resources.

Mindful of the financial strain that tuition may place on a family’s budget, Launch offers internal Tuition Assistance to those families who financially qualify. We review each Tuition Assistance application on a case-by-case basis, with consideration for special circumstances. Since 2019, Launch has provided over $1 Million in Tuition Assitance to our families.

Affordable, high-quality, and equitable childcare is not just a benefit for individual families; it is an investment in the future of society.

Economic Growth and Productivity:

• Affordable childcare allows parents, especially mothers, to re-enter the workforce or pursue careers without the burden of unaffordable care costs. This results in overall workforce participation, particularly among women, and helps close gender gaps in employment.
• When parents have access to reliable childcare, they can be more focused, productive, and less stressed at work. This contributes to higher workplace productivity and greater job satisfaction.
• Equitable childcare options reduce the financial strain on low- and middle-income families, helping to lift more families out of poverty and improve their financial security. It can reduce the need for government assistance programs, saving public money in the long term.
• Early access to education and care is one of the most effective ways to break the cycle of poverty and promote upward social mobility.

Improved Child Development and Wellbeing: 

• Equitable childcare ensures that children from all socioeconomic backgrounds have access to the same quality of early education. This can help bridge the educational gap between children from wealthier families and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Children in Launch programs learn and develop social-emotional skills, such as sharing, cooperation, and conflict resolution, which are critical for success later in life. Additionally, Launch promotes physical activity, balanced nutrition, and mental health support for the children in our care.

Strong Communities:

• The Launch community involves a network of parents, caregivers, and educators. This creates a sense of community, where families can share resources, advice, and support – fostering local connections and social cohesion.
• Studies have shown that children who have access to high-quality early education and care are less likely to engage in criminal behavior as they grow older.
• Children who have access to high-quality childcare are more likely to graduate from school, find stable employment, and contribute to the economy in the long run.