Welcome to the new EFS website!
The EFS Story
Our story begins in 1990 with a group of Dallas philanthropists and continues today — now reaching over 1,800 educators and 6,100 students across 6 North Texas counties every single year.
EARLY YEARS
Our Beginnings
The EFS story begins in 1990 with a group of Dallas philanthropists who wanted to give local children the foundation for success in life.
These philanthropists included David Munson, Sr. and his wife, Mona Munson; Dallas ISD Superintendent Linus Wright and his wife, Joyce Wright; and community leaders Sandra Estess and Barbara Garton.
Their early vision and dedication are embodied in the EFS team today.
GROWTH & EXPANSION
Establishing Excellence
In the decades after its founding, EFS established programming to support underperforming daycares in historically underinvested areas.
These efforts eventually culminated in EFS’ premier program, the Four Steps to Excellence, which continues to transform North Texas childcare centers and their communities today.
Over the years, we’ve also expanded our operations beyond accreditation alone — offering additional resources for partner centers including business development, marketing, leadership training, and more.
Learn more about the Four Steps to Excellence and why quality childcare matters so much.
CURRENT FOOTPRINT
Continuing Impact
More than 30 years since our founding, the EFS story has expanded to involve all corners of North Texas — from the small business owners who own and operate our partner centers to the donors, funders, and corporate partners who empower our work. And, of course, the families and children we ultimately serve!
As of 2023, EFS partners with more than 150 childcare centers and home-based providers across 6 North Texas counties — and growing.
THE FUTURE
Will You Be Part of Our Story?
We can’t do it without you!
There are so many ways to carry forward the impactful vision of EFS’ original founders: a world in which all communities will have equitable, high-quality early childhood education.
We invite you to join EFS in not only closing achievement gaps for early learners and breaking cycles of generational poverty for working families, but also creating a brighter and more equitable tomorrow for communities across North Texas.
How to Get Involved
- Donate to provide quality early educational experiences
- Attend an EFS event
- Encourage your employer to become a corporate partner
- Share our impact with your network
- Volunteer your time, skills, and expertise
Do you operate a childcare center? Then check out the Four Steps to Excellence or EFS Academy.
