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News and happenings about First Things First

Expanding access to affordable child care is economic necessity worth $12 billion

November 18, 2025
child care crisis

Report details how strengthening Arizona’s child care system could generate over $12 billion in annual economic output. Read More

Woman holding extra large check for $1,000

First scholar completes Child Development Associate credential through FTF support

10/12/2023
professional development

Karen Preston recently became the first scholar in Arizona to complete her CDA through online courses sponsored by First Things First.

Federal pandemic era assistance to Arizona’s child care industry is ending. What does that mean…

10/11/2023
child care crisis

Federal child care assistance is ending as advocates warn of a child care cliff that jeopardizes working families, employers and Arizona’s economy.

First Things First 2023 Annual Report highlights outcomes of work and collaboration in Arizona

9/15/2023
early childhood

Today’s babies, toddlers and preschoolers are our state’s generation next—the generation that in just a couple of decades will be entering the workforce…

Three new Board members bring diverse expertise to First Things First

9/15/2023
board

The First Things First Board recently welcomed three new members. Dr. Darlene Melk, Francisco Muñoz and Steve Peru.

Longtime FTF regional council members honored with Eddie Basha Excellence Award

9/5/2023
Regional Partnership Councils

FTF regional partnership council members who achieved 15 years of volunteering with FTF received the Eddie Basha Award.

Conference room with people sitting around tables.

Northern Arizona community members discuss child care challenges and potential solutions

8/23/2023
Coconino

The forum at Twin Arrows conference center outside of Flagstaff was the second quarterly gathering on Strengthening the Child Care Workforce.

Jessica Jarvi, FTF Phoenix South Regional Partnership Council Member

Spotlight on FTF Phoenix South Regional Council Member: Jessica Jarvi

8/11/2023
Regional Partnership Councils

Jessica Jarvi is the business representative on the FTF Phoenix South Regional Council. She has been on the council for over a decade.

Preschool teacher reaching across a table with little children seated around her. Early childhood college scholarships

College scholarships available for early childhood education students

7/17/2023
professional development

The scholarship covers tuition, books and fees at any Arizona community college or university for those pursuing an early childhood degree.

Child care worker in blue shirt talking to a little boy with a blue toy in his hand. early care and education workforce

New national early care and education workforce center designed to support child care workers

7/7/2023
child care

One focus will be the workforce pipeline. Many early care and education organizations find it difficult to locate skilled workers.

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