Public Policy and Advocacy
Policy Commitment Statement
WAEYC is committed to advancing public policies that promote anti-racist practices, equitable access to early learning, and a thriving workforce. Our priorities aim to ensure that every child, family, and educator—particularly those from underserved and BIPOC communities—has access to opportunities that foster growth, inclusion, and equity.
2025-2027 Legislative Agenda Priorities
- Recognize Early Childhood Educators as professionals who should be well-compensated.
- Access to Anti-Racist and Culturally Relevant Professional Development for Educators.
- Dismantling Systemic Barriers to Accessing High-Quality Early Learning for Rural, Underserved and BIPOC Children.
- Families and the Early Learning Workforce Voice in Policymaking.
- Inclusion of and support for Multilingual programming in Early Learning Environments.
WAEYC Community and Organizational Policy Priorities
- Support for Family-Owned and Small Childcare Providers: Streamlining Licensing and Reducing Regulatory Burden.
- Fostering Student-Led, Trauma-Informed Education for Children Birth to 8.
- Strengthening Early Support Services for children with healthcare needs, focusing on both mental and physical health, alongside comprehensive early Support Services, to enhance overall well-being.
- Bridging the Digital Divide and Equitable Access to Technology in Early Childhood Education for providers and their families.
