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MnAEYC Policy & Advocacy

Did you know MnAEYC has a Policy & Advocacy Committee?


This dedicated group meets monthly to stay informed on early childhood policy, engage in coalition work at the state and federal levels, and help shape MnAEYC’s annual policy agenda. Their work ensures that the voices of Minnesota’s early childhood professionals are heard where decisions are made. Join their next Office Hours on January 27, 2026 at 5 PM CT to learn more!
🔗 https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Eu73RRYwSlKl3IxZ3dFIYQ

 

MnAEYC also partners with a number of organizations to move forward early childhood field advocacy goals.  We are collaborators on the CARE Fellowship, have a seat on the Transforming Minnesota's Early Childhood Workforce Group, and The Advocacy for Children Day planning team.

2026
NAEYC
Public Policy Forum

NAEYC’s annual Public Policy Forum is a multi-day advocacy experience designed to help early childhood educators exercise their powerful policy voices and make themselves heard—at every level. Through a packed agenda of workshops, keynotes, panels, strategy sessions, and conversations with policymakers on Capitol Hill, PPF helps participants: 

  • Strengthen advocacy skills 

  •  Expand policy knowledge 

  •  Build relationships with other educators, advocates, and allies 

  •  Engage with national and state policy leaders and fellow advocates on the most important, timely, and relevant early childhood education issues 

  •  Deepen relationships with Congressional offices 

This isn't just another professional development event; it's a call to action. It’s your opportunity to shape the future of our field by sharing your story, connecting with legislators, and speaking out about the investments and policies we need to thrive.

 

MnAEYC is proud to be sending a team of Minnesota representatives to the 2026 NAEYC Public Policy Forum to ensure our state’s needs and perspectives are represented at the national level. 🗣️✨

Currently representing Minnesota:
• Leah Budnik, MnAEYC Secretary
• Alex Metchnek, MnAEYC Policy & Advocacy Committee Member
• Erin Wirtz, Minnesota North College Childhood Education Faculty
• Courtney Greiner, Early Educator, Community Organizer & Trainer/Consultant

 

Are interested in shaping the future of early childhood policy? There’s still time to join the 2026 NAEYC Public Policy Forum and be part of national advocacy efforts alongside colleagues from Minnesota and across the country.

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🔗 Learn more and register here: https://www.naeyc.org/events/policy-forum

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Together, we can ensure Minnesota’s early childhood community has a strong voice at the policy table. 

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