EELE Coalition Meeting Recap – [May 23, 2024]
EELE Coalition Meeting Recap – [May 23, 2024]
Overview: Florida State Senator Alexis Calatayud advised us of her efforts with the Florida Senate to raise Florida poverty levels so parents can qualify for childcare assistance programs & we heard the latest updates about Florida Department of Children & Families technology coming soon to childcare businesses.
Key Speakers:
- Florida State Senator Alexis Calatayud: Alexis Calatayud, a passionate advocate for early childhood education, has made significant strides in supporting and empowering educators, parents, and young learners. Her commitment to fostering a robust foundation for children in their formative years was the focus of the recent Empowering Early Learning Education event. Alexis Calatayud delivered an inspiring keynote address, emphasizing the importance of early childhood education in shaping future generations. She highlighted the need for increased funding, resources, and support for educators and families. The event offered a platform for educators, policymakers, and community leaders to connect and collaborate. Alexis Calatayud facilitated discussions on building partnerships to support early learning initiatives.
- Jeffrey Hurst, Florida Department of Children & Families: Jeffrey Hurst, the Community Liaison for the Department of Children & Families, is dedicated to advancing early learning education. His efforts aim to ensure that every child has access to quality educational opportunities, laying a strong foundation for lifelong success. Jeffrey Hurst opened the event with a powerful speech about the crucial role of early education in shaping the future of communities. He highlighted how early interventions can significantly impact children’s developmental outcomes and long-term success. The discussion focused on creating inclusive environments that cater to diverse learning needs. Jeffrey highlighted successful case studies and advocated for policies that ensure equity in education. Jeffrey Hurst reaffirmed his commitment to supporting early childhood education through his role as Community Liaison.
Main Discussions:
- Topic 1: Senator Calatayud announced upcoming initiatives aimed at expanding access to quality early learning programs and resources. She emphasized the need for ongoing advocacy to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed. The Empowering Early Learning Education event was a resounding success, bringing together stakeholders from various sectors to champion the cause of early childhood education. Alexis Calatayud’s unwavering dedication and leadership continue to inspire positive change, paving the way for a brighter future for young learners.
- Topic 2: Jeffrey announced plans for upcoming initiatives that focus on expanding access to quality early education. These include partnerships with local organizations, community outreach programs, and efforts to increase funding for early learning resources.The Empowering Early Learning Education event successfully united educators, community leaders, and advocates in a shared mission to support early childhood education. Jeffrey Hurst’s leadership and dedication continue to drive positive change, fostering an environment where every child can thrive.
Action Items:
- Work on building relationships with more legislators with similar objectives & invite them to tour the childcare centers, we need to reach out to early learning centers to let them know if they are interested in joining.
Next Steps: Formulate detailed action plans for each initiative discussed, focusing on immediate priorities and long-term goals. Ensure alignment with the Department of Children & Families’ objectives.
Schedule Follow-Up Meetings: With Alexis Calatayud and Jeffery Hurst, along with other key stakeholders. Review progress on action items, discuss challenges, and adjust strategies as necessary to maintain momentum and impact.
Host a Strategy Workshop/ Meeting: Bring together coalition members and stakeholders to brainstorm and refine strategies, focusing on innovative approaches to advocacy and resource mobilization.
Increase Member Engagement: Launch a campaign to encourage active participation and membership within the coalition.Social media, email newsletters, and community events.
Report Submission: Prepare and submit a comprehensive report on the meeting outcomes and planned initiatives.
Acknowledgments: We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their invaluable contributions to the success of our meeting: Jeffery Hurst: For their insightful contributions and continued partnership in our advocacy efforts. Alexis Calatayud – for sharing their expertise and inspiring our coalition with new perspectives and ideas. A special thank you to all participants who took time out of their busy schedules to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
Contact Information:
Jeffrey Hurst – Law Clerk/Community Liaison – (561)-302-1501
Alexis Calatayud Contact Info:
Kendall Campus, Suite 5101
11011 SW 104th Street
Miami, FL 33176
(305) 596-3002
Email: Calatayud.Alexis.web@flsenate.gov
Signing up to be EELE member (https://empoweringearlylearningeducators.com/become-a-member/)
Link to Social Media posts and event’s Pictures
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6_1H4cu_gO/?igsh=bXFmYWtwMzloNmM5
https://www.instagram.com/p/C7M2MQIxcCr/?igsh=MTZsZ2Q3emMwZWIzNg==
https://www.instagram.com/p/C7M2MQIxcCr/?igsh=MTZsZ2Q3emMwZWIzNg==
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8KU6FEMZhJ/?igsh=dWIyOG1rMmo3aDI4
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C9DkhAaRRts/?igsh=MTJra29nNGh6cGdobQ==
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/h8XEU54WCoaJHLv1/?mibextid=WC7FNe
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/L8ewB7VHp3vhd6wf/?mibextid=WC7FNe
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/tNhHza2QnFTuHMr4/?mibextid=WC7FNe