Excel by Eight is focused on building a reliable resource grid, where all Arkansas families and communities have what they need to help children thrive.
LEARN ABOUT OUR PLANE8 Communities in Arkansas are improving health and education outcomes for their children.
A child’s first 3 years build the foundation for future learning, behavior, and health.

Excel by Eight Welcomes La Shawn Grimes as Project Consultant
Excel by Eight is excited to welcome La Shawn Grimes to its team as a project consultant. Grimes will lead the Conway County Excel by Eight steering committee as it works to strengthen family engagement by hosting “conversation cafes” throughout the area.
Excel by Eight Welcomes Sanci Richardson as Communities Manager
Excel by Eight (E8) has added Sanci Richardson as communities manager. With an extensive community and economic development background, Richardson will help design and implement a strategy that organizes and engages individuals and organizations in E8 communities to...
“Don’t look at us as babysitters. Look at us as early education professionals.”
Alicia Williams owns and operates three child care centers in El Dorado and Benton. Despite her successes as a business owner and her passion for early care and education, working in child care and owning a privately owned center can be difficult. We talked to Alicia about the challenges she faces, especially when it comes to balancing what families can afford to pay and what employees need to earn.