By Steve Adams
Nov. 7, 2025
Photo by: Morgan Solomon
The University of Missouri Department of Human Development and Family Science in the College of Education and Human Development has launched RISE-MO — Recruit, Inspire, Support the Early Childhood Profession in Missouri — a new initiative designed to expand and strengthen Missouri’s early childhood education workforce.
Supported through the Missouri Higher Education and Workforce Development MoExcels grant, RISE-MO creates accessible, flexible pathways for early childhood professionals at every stage of their careers. The program features fully online options, including the Child Development Associate Prep Program, Early Child Care Leadership Certificates and a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education in a mobile society. Through collaboration with MU Extension, RISE-MO also offers career exploration opportunities for 4-H, middle and high school students, as well as support for people who want to start or enhance childcare in their community.
RISE-MO reflects the heart of Mizzou’s land-grant mission, Kui Xie, dean and Joanne H. Hook Dean’s Chair in Educational Renewal, said.
“RISE-MO represents the promise of a land-grant university — to serve the public good,” Xie said. “It’s about turning knowledge into action. Through this initiative, we are using research and innovation to shape better policies, better practices and better outcomes for children, families and educators across Missouri.”
The initiative is designed to empower both individuals and communities, Brenda Lohman, chair of the Department of Human Development and Family Science, said.
“Through RISE-MO, we are not just supporting the educational pathways of the early childhood profession; we are empowering communities to rise together,” Lohman said. “Strong businesses rely on strong communities — and that starts with reliable, affordable childcare.”
Mizzou leaders announced the program during a ribbon-cutting celebration for the renovated Child Development Lab, the first in the state to receive a Quality Assurance Recognition from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Office of Childhood.
Xie emphasized the CDL’s role as a living laboratory that connects research, teaching, and service.
“Lab schools like the CDL hold a unique and powerful role in our education system,” he said. “They are living classrooms — places where research and practice meet in service of children. It’s this blend of discovery, teaching and care that makes a lab school such a vital part of our college, the university and the community.”
Matthew Martens, provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs, highlighted the CDL as a model for experiential learning at Mizzou.
“The Child Development Lab showcases the Mizzou Method — high-impact, hands-on learning — at its best,” Martens said. “These renovations create a remarkable environment for children and families, while providing Mizzou students and faculty with a place to connect research, teaching, and practice.”
The renovated facility includes new accessible observation booths, updated classrooms, a new pre-K room and a fully accessible playground. Since reopening in September, students from across campus have already logged more than 200 hours of observation at the CDL.
“The CDL has served Mizzou and the Columbia community for more than 100 years,” Lohman said. “This renovation and recognition renew our commitment to the children who learn here, the students who train here, and the families who depend on us.”
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