Sauk Valley STARS Receives $75,000 To Support Early Childhood Programs

October 31, 2025

Original coverage on Superhits 93.5 by Charles VanHorn. The audio segment can be viewed on YouTube.

A $75,000 grant from Birth to Five Illinois will strengthen early childhood programs in Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside counties through the Sauk Valley STARS Coalition, part of a $2.5 million statewide investment funded by the Illinois State Board of Education.

Abby Hoskins, Regional Council Manager for Birth to Five Illinois: Region 47, said the effort is about making sure families are heard and connected to the support they need. “Birth to Five Illinois works in every community across the state, and for us here in Region 47, that means really listening to what families say they need when it comes to early childhood education and care,” Hoskins said. “We bring those voices together, identify gaps in services, and work with partners like Sauk Valley STARS to make real changes that improve access for children and families.”

Lois Meisenheimer, Early Childhood Programs Coordinator and Sauk Valley STARS Chair, said the coalition’s work goes well beyond traditional preschool services. “When people think of early childhood programs, they usually think of preschools or daycare centers, but it’s much broader than that,” Meisenheimer said. “We’re bringing together everyone who serves young children—mental health providers, health care professionals, and even the faith community—so we can support families from every angle and make sure no one falls through the cracks.”

The new funding will expand coordination among agencies, support parent outreach and education, and help close childcare gaps through projects such as full-day preschool expansion, workforce development, and the OWL Early Childhood Resource Hub.