Early Childhood Day at the Capitol was a family affair this year as more than 500 supporters, including the largest number of families and children, gathered to raise awareness of the importance of early childhood education with state lawmakers.
The Arizona Early Childhood Alliance (AZECA), of which First Things First (FTF) is a member, sponsors the yearly event. AZECA is an alliance of cross-sector partners statewide who share a common goal to ensure that all Arizona children are prepared for kindergarten and on track to succeed by the end of third grade.
“It’s inspiring to see so many people becoming advocates for Arizona’s children and families,” said FTF Director of Government Affairs Dylan Frye, who was one of the planners of the event. “It’s critical that our legislators hear the stories of families with young children and of child care providers.”
Many of those in attendance took advantage to sign up for the Request to Speak system at the Arizona Legislature. This website allows the public to register opinions (for/against/neutral) and voice comments on bills as they pass through the Arizona Senate and House of Representatives.
The Feb. 16 gathering comes at a critical time as early childhood supporters rally for legislation that could help stabilize funding for early childhood programs and child care for working families, including House Bill 4032, which would establish an excise tax on nicotine and vapor products, similar to traditional tobacco taxes. By including these newer products, the bill helps stabilize long-term funding for early childhood and continue a dedicated funding source to ensure Arizona’s youngest children have access to quality early learning and healthy development opportunities.
Parents speaking out
A key part of the morning was a panel discussion: Raising Arizona: From Our Stories to Policy Change, made up of parents who spoke of the challenges of finding quality child care for their children and how they overcame those challenges, along with educators and child care providers describing their experiences in working with children and families.
The panel included Mike Conner, an Avondale high school teacher; Jess Bjerke, a working mother from Maricopa and part of Chamber of Mothers organization; Alicia Lopez, a Buckeye mother who opted to stay at home to care for her children; Chris Willis, a child care program director with the Valley of the Sun YMCA; Monica Timberlake, a grandmother/caregiver from Quartzite; and Travis Jones, a certified public accountant from Marana and early childhood advocate. It was moderated by Devin Del Palcio, who is the executive director of Copper State Education Alliance.
As some attendees networked, others toured the Capitol. Constituents visited with their legislators in their offices throughout the day. Rep. Kevin Volk, a sponsor of HB4032, was seen talking to participants outside the House and Sen. Analise Ortiz made time to read to the children gathered at the plaza. The reading corner and activity was popular for young children in attendance.
