In cities and states around the country, universal childcare programs are finally having their moment. That includes New Mexico, where 15 years of work culminated in a successful ballot initiative authorizing a massive, permanent funding increase for early childhood education. Since that win, however, the state has struggled to increase supply — and it’s still dealing with a childcare shortage. In this month’s Highlight cover story, Sara Mickelson reports for Vox on how the state is screwing up universal childcare, and the lessons it can learn from places that are getting it right. Also in this issue: The case for joining a club. Why “drive-thru” healthcare is booming. How generosity became cringe. And surprising good news for new college grads.

By Sara Mickelson

By Bryan Walsh

By Marina Bolotnikova

By Sara Herschander

By Dylan Scott

By Allie Volpe