The Early Childhood Policy Council Holds June 8th Virtual Meeting
Members of the Early Edge California team joined the Early Childhood Policy Council (ECPC) meeting held on Monday, June 8. Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, Chair of the ECPC, began the meeting with a powerful opening statement addressing the current civil unrest and how the council has a tremendous opportunity to address the systemic issues of racism and inequities through its important work.
During the working session of the agenda, the ECPC provided an update on the Master Plan for Early Learning and Care (MPELC). Presentation slides for this portion of the meetings can be found here. The working session also discussed the MPELC draft vision statement: “Young children thrive physically, emotionally, and educationally in their early years with equitable access to child and family-centered services that support healthy child development.”
During the meeting, the ECPC shared that the MPELC has developed an Early Learning and Care Playbook, which includes the latest guidelines and resources to create a safe and nurturing Early Learning environment for children and providers as the state reopens. The website includes resources for teachers and families. They have also added a Dual Language Learning section with appropriate resources, which includes Early Edge California’s Distance Learning Webinars available in both English and Spanish.
Council members concluded the meeting by discussing what priorities and activities the MPELC should capture both in the near future and looking long term. Members shared that funding for childcare is a major concern with several members specifically calling out their concern should reimbursement rates be cut.
The next ECPC meeting is scheduled for August 24, 2020. You can find more information about the ECPC and upcoming meetings here.