Big Dreams Through Small Steps Founder Misty Ritch Featured in NEXTGEN Magazine

The Early Learning Coalition (ELC) publication NEXTGEN Family magazine spotlighted Misty Ritch as one of the ELC's Board of Directors in its Winter 2024 issue, celebrating her passion for early learning and the positive influence she brings to the community.

Longstanding Dedication to Early Childhood Education

Misty Ritch joined the ELC board in September 2023, but her involvement with early childhood education extends far beyond that. She has worked with the ELC of Southwest Florida since 2008 and the ELC of Manatee County since 2019 as a provider. Misty’s long-term commitment to early childhood education and supporting families inspired her to take on a leadership role on the board.

A Career Rooted in Education

Misty's career in early childhood education began during her college years. Since then, she has taught children from infancy through seventh grade. Her experience includes serving as a preschool director, opening five preschools, and assisting in launching charter schools. Her passion has always centered around teaching three-year-olds, VPK, and kindergarten students due to the critical nature of those early learning stages.

Today, Misty and her husband run their family foundation, the Ritch Foundation, and their office, Ritch Ventures, through which they focus on positively impacting children in the community.

Recently, Misty founded the nonprofit Big Dreams Through Small Steps, which empowers children and families through accessible educational programs, community engagement, job skills, and entrepreneurial training. Key initiatives include drowning prevention for young children, business grants for local small businesses, and educational programs on literacy and financial principles.

Making a Positive Impact on the Board

When asked about her favorite aspect of serving on the ELC board, Misty emphasized the joy she finds in making a positive impact. She values mentoring children through ReadingPals and supporting ELC initiatives, knowing her efforts contribute to changing lives. Misty also strives to bring respectability to the early childhood education profession.

The Importance of Early Education

Misty views early education as foundational to a child’s future success. She believes it fosters lifelong learning, cognitive development, and emotional well-being. As a former kindergarten teacher, she aimed to make learning fun, inspiring lifelong learners. She highlights research that connects early education with improved high school graduation rates and long-term achievements.

“Children exposed to books and print early not only develop reading confidence but also become critical problem solvers. This exposure prepares them for future success both academically and personally,” she shared.

Family, Community, and Personal Joy

Family plays a significant role in Misty’s life, and she cherishes moments with her youngest daughter, a high school senior. Supporting her through this milestone brings Misty immense joy.

Additionally, Misty is active with the Bradenton Kiwanis Club, furthering her commitment to serving local children’s needs. Alongside her husband, she continues to build a legacy of helping children and families, believing that positive change in a community begins with its youngest members.

Through her ongoing work, Misty Ritch continues to inspire and create meaningful change, making a lasting impact on the lives of children and families across the region.