May 2026 President Report

G’day MnAEYC Members,

As we move into the summer months, I find myself thinking about the rhythm of our work in early childhood education. Summer can be a time to pause, breathe, and reflect on the year behind us. It can also be a time to re-energize, reconnect with colleagues, and remember the deep purpose that brings us to this work: supporting young children, families, educators, and communities across Minnesota.

At MnAEYC, we are especially looking forward to gathering with many of you at our upcoming Summer Leadership Institute. This event is an important opportunity for early childhood leaders, educators, advocates, and partners to come together around shared learning, meaningful conversation, and collective action. Whether you are leading from a classroom, a program, a higher education setting, a community organization, or a policy space, your voice and leadership matter. We hope the Institute offers space to strengthen relationships, spark new ideas, and support the ongoing work of building a more equitable, joyful, and sustainable early childhood profession.

I also want to take this opportunity to express my deep appreciation to our outgoing MnAEYC board members. Board service is often quiet, behind-the-scenes work, but it is essential to the strength and direction of our organization. Thank you for the time, thoughtfulness, advocacy, and care you have given to MnAEYC and to the early childhood field in Minnesota. Your contributions have helped shape where we are and where we are headed.

At the same time, I am delighted to welcome our incoming board members. We are grateful for your willingness to serve and to bring your experiences, perspectives, and leadership to MnAEYC. As we continue to grow and strengthen our work, the energy and commitment of our board will be vital in helping us live into our mission and strategic priorities.

Finally, I want to sincerely thank you for reelecting me as President of MnAEYC. It is an honor to continue serving this organization and its members. I remain deeply committed to working alongside you to advocate for early childhood educators, elevate the importance of our profession, and create spaces where members feel connected, supported, and inspired.

Thank you for all you do every day for children, families, educators, and communities. I hope this summer brings each of you moments of rest, renewal, and reconnection.

With appreciation,

Jodie Riek

President, MnAEYC