Elections 2024 Ballot Candidates

MaryBeth Bush

Early Childhood, especially, family child care, has been my passion since I opened my Family Child Care program, Mary’s Little Lambs Child Care and Preschool, in 1994. Once open, I searched in my community to learn all I could about the Early Education field. My first accomplishment was earning my CDA in 1998. Next, wanting to connect other family childcare educators together, myself and a few other providers, co-founded a local non-profit family childcare network organization, H.A.P.P.Y. Homes of Ohio. Through this organization, I broadened my involvement into several other organizations, including our local and state chapters of NAEYC. In 2012, I earned my National Accreditation through NAFCC, and in 2015, became a star 5 in Ohio’s QRIS system. This encouraged me to continue my education and I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Early Education in 2018. With this degree, I was recruited by my local Resource and Referral agency for employment as an Early Childhood Specialist that focused on supporting Family Child Care Educators in three counties in Ohio. With this role, I have been able to branch out and volunteer with many other organizations; local, state, and national. In 2022-2023, I had the pleasure of becoming a Leader Shaping Leaders Fellow, which heightened my excitement about becoming part of NAFCC’s Board of Directors. If nominated to become part of your board, I will bring with me my lifelong commitment to young children to serve other Early Childhood Educators and support their dedication and growth.

Kendra Thomas

My name is Kendra Thomas, and I am the Manager of Family Childcare Initiatives at First Up, Champions for Education. For more than 17 years, I have been advocating for the unique needs of home-based childcare educators in Philadelphia and beyond. I am excited to express my interest in serving as Secretary on the Board of the National Association of Family Child Care. As a former licensed family child care owner and operator, I understand the challenges that come with this industry. However, I also know that family childcare can be a rewarding and impactful career. With my experience in nonprofit management, administration, and organizational development, I believe I am the ideal candidate for this position. I am passionate about raising the quality of family childcare programs through national standards and believe that serving on the board of NAFCC would allow me to continue this vital work. I am confident that I would be an influential contributor to the continued growth of NAFCC while amplifying and unifying the voices of home-based childcare educators across the country. I look forward to the opportunity to serve, and thank you for considering my application.

Cynthia Davis
District of Columbia

Cynthia Davis is the founder and CEO of Kings & Queens Child Care Center. Cynthia worked as a contractor for the Department of Justice for 23 years and now as a Family Childcare Teacher for over 15 years. Cynthia received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Development and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Cynthia is currently the Executive Director of the D.C. Family Child Care Association. Cynthia’s mission is to advocate for equitable pay and resources while ensuring that the voices of home-based programs/family child care are heard and recognized for their dedication and contributions to early childhood education.

Elizabeth Arnold
Nebraska

I am seeking your support for my candidacy as Nebraska’s state membership representative. With over 15 years of experience as a childcare provider, I have developed a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the early childhood profession. Life has instilled in me a sense of dedication, resilience, and compassion that I bring to my work every day. With my youngest child graduating, I have the time to channel these qualities into this new role with my peers. Attending the NAFCC Conference in Atlanta in 2023 was a transformative experience. It opened my eyes to the power of advocacy and collective action in shaping policies and initiatives that benefit childcare providers, families, and children. Witnessing the inspiring stories of providers who had successfully advocated for their profession reaffirmed my commitment to bringing that same passion and energy to Nebraska. My experiences as a childcare provider, coupled with my ongoing education and involvement in various advocacy efforts, have equipped me with the skills necessary to be successful in this role. I have testified before the Nebraska Unicameral, established close relationships with key early care and education stakeholders, and obtained accreditation from NAFCC.

Lenise Parker
Tennessee

I seek this position as a State Representative to ensure that the voices of Tennesseans in the childcare field are heard. I would like to bring new ideas to the table to keep all of us in childcare happy. To help make transitions easier and help open more doors for safe, loving, inviting, and licensed in home daycares. While I know this cannot be done in one year, I would love the opportunity to hear the voices and concerns of so many. To work with DHS and other partners to see that some, if not all, is heard.

I am new to child care here in Tennessee and have gone through some hurdles in getting licensed. If I can take what I went through and possibly get rid of the red tape to help others succeed, I am willing and able to do so. I want everyone to win. I want everyone to still love what they do, whether they are new in child care or have been in childcare for 20-plus years.

I have heard many concerns over the short time I have been in childcare, and I want to be the voice for those who feel voiceless. I want to do my very best to ensure all is well with each of us. I want to give you the very best version of me. I love what I do and want everyone to feel all the love.

Sasha Shunk
Maine

With over two decades of experience as a licensed family childcare provider and a deep-rooted commitment to elevating the standards of our profession, I am confident that I am the right candidate to represent Maine and advocate for positive change.

Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to providing the highest quality of care for the children in our communities. My journey with NAFCC began in 2006, and since then, I have been actively involved in advancing our profession. From achieving accreditation in 2007 to serving as an observer and mentor, I have consistently worked to improve our practices and promote collaboration among providers.

As the current Vice Chair of our state association, I have honed my leadership skills and developed strong relationships with fellow providers, state agencies, and educational institutions. This position has enabled me to effectively communicate important information from NAFCC and our state to providers, ensuring our voices are heard.

I believe that together we can create a brighter future for family childcare. With your vote and support, I am confident that we can make a difference and ensure that every child receives the nurturing care and education they deserve.

Brooke McDonald
Oregon

As Oregon’s State Representative for the NAFCC, I aspire to connect with family cares around that state of Oregon to strengthen the support needed for providers in my state. I will do my best to attend meetings with the state to be the voice of family care and be able to represent the different perspectives and cultures of my state. With my commitment to this organization, I will guide and mentor those who are in need. I will promote all aspects of NAFCC services through the state, including memberships, accreditation, public policy, the annual conference, regional event, webinars, and more. I aim to achieve goals of getting new member for the NAFCC, promote accreditation throughout the state, and be a voice for family childcare across the state.

I will continue my profession development with the NAFCC and more as I am dedicated to family childcare and early education. I have many goals for the NAFCC and the state of Oregon, and I cannot wait to get to work with the NAFCC and Oregon. I am willing to commit to quality throughout this position and expand my knowledge in family childcare. There is so much learn still and with this position I will be able to thrive in my profession development and building relationships with other family childcares throughout Oregon. As childcare is something that is minimal and such a high demand this position will allow me to advocate for the demand that is so high with little resources for families and family child care.

Shaccase Vaughn
Louisiana

As a daycare owner for the past three years and holding a Master’s in Business Administration, I am compelled to seek the position of Louisiana State Representative for Childcare. My journey in childcare has been transformative, shaped by a profound commitment to the well-being and development of our state’s youngest citizens. Throughout my tenure, I have navigated the intricate landscape of childcare provision, witnessing both the joys and challenges that come with it.

My experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of the critical role that early education plays in shaping the future of our society. It has also exposed me to the systemic barriers that hinder access to quality childcare for many families, particularly those in underserved communities. These experiences have fueled my passion for advocacy and my determination to enact meaningful change at the policy level. Moreover, my background in business administration equips me with a unique perspective and skill set that I believe can drive innovative solutions to address the complexities of childcare provision.

I am adept at strategic planning, financial management, and organizational leadership, essential qualities for navigating the intricacies of policymaking and advocacy. If elected, I am committed to amplifying the voices of childcare providers, families, and children across Louisiana. I will work tirelessly to champion policies that promote accessibility, affordability, and quality in early education and care. Through collaboration with stakeholders, policymakers, and community leaders, I am confident that we can create a more equitable and inclusive childcare system that meets the diverse needs of our state’s families.

In conclusion, my candidacy for Louisiana State Representative for Childcare is driven by a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of early education and care. With your support, I am ready to embark on this journey of advocacy, leadership, and service to ensure that every child in Louisiana has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we can build a brighter future for our state’s youngest citizens.

Kim Spiegel
Michigan

“It is easier to build strong children than it is to fix a broken man.”
By Fredrick Douglas

My name is Kim E. Spiegel. I have served families with young children for the last 24 years. My positions have been the combination of paid and volunteer opportunities. Volunteering at my local church as youth leader and Youth Minister came natural to me. When I was given the opportunity to expand my volunteerism, it was my pleasure to have completed two tours of AmeriCorp in the Detroit metropolitan area. During this time my team developed and managed Headstart libraries and conducted interactive play group for infants and toddlers and their families. After my AmeriCorps tours ended I sought out other opportunities to serve. One of the most enjoyable opportunities was when I worked for local After-school programs. These agency offered enrichment courses and tutoring opportunities assisting students that needed the extra help. I have not only served my community in large setting but in very intimate settings as well. It was very exciting and a privilege to offer my child care expertise to some of Detroit’s well established families as there private nanny. My love for children and my dedication to their developmental growth is insurmountable. Which lead me to open SoZo Granny’s a Licensed Family Daycare.

Building places where children can thrive is a life long goal of mine. When I am elected as the State Representative for NAFCC I will do everything in my power to make sure Michigan’s children can flourish to their full potential. By up holding the NAFCC mission of strengthening the family childcare profession we will ensure our children are thriving. I have the ability to serve as a vital part of this great commission. Building strong networks, developing and maintaining relationships with relevant organizations are worthwhile strategies that I agree with and will help implement. During my professional career I have worked diligently with established community agencies such as: LARA, Great Starts To Quality, Michigan Department of Education, CACFP Federal Food Program, American Red Cross, Ages and Stages and Empowered Community Outreach Services.

Throughout my years of dedication to my community it has been my obligation to take every opportunity to network with family childcare providers. I have listened to their concerns and I understand and emphasize with them. I understand their needs because I have the same concerns. I truly believe that NAFCC is the answer to Michigan’s family childcare providers concerns. I have lived my life as a servant to those around me. Given the opportunity, I will be an important asset serving as the state representative of the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC).

Thank you for considering my application.

Vantionette Savage
North Carolina

I feel that I have a strong desire to make a positive impact on our community and NAFCC. Service as a State Representative of the Membership Board will allow me to have direct influence on policies and decisions that affect the HBFCC providers in numbers. Serving as the State Representative will give me the opportunity for personal and professional growth. It will allow me to develop leadership skills, learn more about how policy and the whole system work in today’s time. I would like to bring specific ideas or initiatives that the FCC wants to implement, and it gives me the platform to advocate for the changes. I enjoy the challenges that come with serving on the board. It’s a fulfilling experience to work with others towards a common goal and see the results of my efforts. Working on a Representative board can greatly depend on my personal motivations and goals.

I am interested in being in the communities, traveling across the state meeting the providers and assisting them with resources, training, and lending an ear to listening. Advcocating for FCC’s Providers on a State level with the North Carolina Childcare Commission Board for Family Child Care. I can use my voice to work with the legislators and state representatives speaking on behalf of all FCC’S across North Carolina.

Tamitha Blackmon
Texas

As a stakeholder as well as an educator in Early Childhood Education, I strongly believe that me being an advocate such as the State Representative of Texas for the National Association of Family Child Care gives myself and my peers a voice in the political arena. I have been that voice for family child care for the last two years and I want to continue to see the work I have started come to fruition.

I am truly passionate about leading the charge for family child care in the great state of Texas. In doing so I have become a board member on several different boards within the capitol of Texas, in order to strategically represent family child care. I have developed relationships and collaborated with other family child care educators, senators, city leaders, council members, commissioners, and directors of early childhood education coalitions that are focused on the movement for family child care.

I am currently working with several work groups, council members, commissioners, and community leaders to bring more funding, subsidies/scholarships for low income families, expanded access for nontraditional hours for child care, business-government partnership for providers and their employees, and quality supports to the family child educators on both the local and state level. In doing so I have been charged with bringing the family child care educators together to campaign for a local tax rate election that would generate an estimated $50 million in funding for early child care. In campaigning for this funding through the TRE, to get it to the ballot and then get voters to vote in support of this funding in the November election, family child care educators and the families they serve would receive equitable access to resources that would help them provide a high quality child care education which leads to increased school readiness, higher maternal employment, and greater household resources.

I know I am equipped, passionate, and ready to continue being the leader and the voice for family child care in Texas Region-A.

Clarrissa Baker
Mississippi

I Clarrissa Baker, more passionately know as Miss Chrrissy seek to be elected as representative of Mississippi. I have been in the Childcare industry for over 19 years with 9 of those years serving my community as a Family Provider. As a dedicated advocate for families and children, I am deeply committed to the well-being and development of our communities. With a background in childcare and a passion for empowering families, I am the ideal candidate to represent Mississippi in the NAFCC.

First and foremost, I understand the challenges facing families and childcare providers in our state. I have firsthand experience working in the childcare industry, where I have witnessed the importance of accessible, high-quality childcare for working parents. I believe that every child deserves a nurturing and supportive environment in which to grow and thrive.

Furthermore, I am committed to advocating for policies that support both childcare providers and the families they serve. I will work tirelessly to promote legislation that increases funding for childcare subsidies, improves training and professional development opportunities for providers, and ensures that all children have access to affordable, high-quality early childhood education.

In conclusion, I am deeply passionate about advocating for the needs of families and children, and I am committed to representing Mississippi with integrity and dedication. With your support, I am confident that I can make a meaningful difference as a representative for the National Association of Family Childcare a. Together, we can build a stronger, more supportive community for all.

Jacqueline Evans
Oklahoma

As a seasoned professional with over 40 years of dedicated service in the childcare industry, I am deeply committed to the welfare and development of children in our state. Serving as the state representative for the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) has been an honor and a privilege, and I am eager to continue this vital role.

My extensive experience in childcare equips me with a comprehensive understanding of the needs and challenges faced by both caregivers and families. Over the years, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of quality early childhood education and care on the lives of children. It is this passion for excellence in childcare that drives me to advocate tirelessly on behalf of our community.

Beyond my professional expertise, I am actively engaged in various initiatives aimed at furthering the childcare industry. Through mentorship programs, I strive to empower aspiring caregivers with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their roles. Additionally, my involvement in community projects underscores my unwavering commitment to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for all children.

Continuing as the state representative for NAFCC presents an opportunity to amplify my advocacy efforts and effect meaningful change on a broader scale. I am dedicated to championing policies that prioritize the well-being and development of our youngest citizens, ensuring they have access to high-quality childcare services that lay the foundation for lifelong success.

In conclusion, my decades-long dedication to childcare, coupled with my ongoing commitment to mentorship and community involvement, uniquely qualify me to continue serving as the state representative for NAFCC. I am deeply invested in the future of our children and remain steadfast in my resolve to advocate for their best interests.

Shruit Agarwal
California

I am Shruti Agarwal, a dedicated Family Child Care (FCC) provider based in Livermore, California. My journey in this field began in 2017, and over the years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as the President of the Valley Family Child Care Association from 2019 to 2023. Additionally, I actively represent FCC interests at the Local Planning Council and participate in Homegrown network and First5 committees. As an FCC provider, I deeply understand the daily challenges we face. From regulatory compliance to ensuring high-quality care for our little ones, our responsibilities are immense. I would like to voice these challenges and educate policymakers of the current concerns and how we can build a more inclusive system for all in ECE. I am also passionate about advocating for positive change.

If elected, I commit to working closely with fellow FCC providers in our area. Regular Zoom meetings will strengthen our network, and I will actively listen to your concerns, amplifying them to the relevant agencies. Together, we can build a more inclusive and supportive ECE system. Thank you for considering me for this important role. Let’s collaborate to create a brighter future for our children and families!

Beth Hart
Nevada

Beth Hart-Mother of 5 children and 5 grandchildren. I have volunteered as co-chair of the Lead Collaborative in Minneapolis (1998-2000), Board Chair of Southside Family Charter school, Board Chair of 25th Street Townhouse Association, Member of Housing board of appeals for the city of Minneapolis, Capital long range planning for the city of Minneapolis representing and appointed by councilmember for Ward 9, and Chair and Treasurer for Midtown Phillips Neighborhood organization. Owner of Hart-to-Hart Family Childcare for 24 years in Minneapolis. I had a 4star rated program in Minneapolis and was awarded a Pathway II scholarship program for my childcare. Participated in grant review with Think Small for Family childcare yearly grants to providers. I hold a CDA in Family childcare and am a PD specialist for the CDA council in Family childcare.

Currently, I am a state representative in NV for NAFCC, alternate to the Accreditation Board for NAFCC, and a member of NAEYC. I am currently working as the QRIS coach for Family Childcare providers in Southern Nevada and I am a trainer on various topics for Nevada.

Cynthia Chipp
Florida

I am Cynthia Chipp and I would count it an honor to fill the roll of State Representative, for the state of Florida. With me I bring over 25 years of experience as a family childcare provider, as well as 10 years as the president of my local family childcare association. I am also a board member of the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County. Also a past board member my state association, Florida Family Childcare Home Association. As a board member and as a family childcare home provider, I am committed to the advancement of family childcare and would love to extend and expand my knowledge, resources, and skills while serving as State Rep.

As I gain knowledge and resources as a board member, I will be able to share my knowledge and resources with other family childcare professionals as well as local and state agencies that I am affiliated with. Being able to share these resources with other agencies as well as family childcare providers will help to create a pool of informed providers who are better equipped to serve the families in which they provide care for because they are informed. Being able to fill this role allows me to form new relationships with like-minded individuals who also share the same passion in which I have toward the family childcare home profession.

Being selected as the State Rep for the Florida/Region will help to further my commitment for the further advancement of family childcare.

Svitlana Uniyat
Minnesota

My name is Svitlana Uniyat, I am originally from Ukraine and have had an extensive experience working in educational and leadership field (elementary school, middle school, high school, college) and early childhood education in Ukraine and USA. I have been nationally accredited family childcare educator for more than 13 years, I also was honored to be chosen as Minnesota family childcare provider for the year 2011 and National accredited provider of the year 2013. I have been attending national conferences for many years and I also have been presenting every year at the National conferences since 2015. I am very passionate about NAFCC, I am a lifetime member of NAFCC and I am committed to NAFCC’s mission & values, I attend NAFCC conferences every year, I am a Train the NAFCC accreditation trainer and NAFCC observer. I have been working as a trainer and a mentor in the family childcare field for many years, commitment to the mission of strengthening family childcare has always been my priority.

I am deeply interested in promoting my profession and supporting the NAFCC mission to serve on their Membership Advisory Council. I believe that identifying and developing strong inclusive leadership is very important for Membership Advisory Council.
I am interested in this position because I understand that it is a critical component of outreach for NAFCC. I have already served one term as NAFCC representative for Minnesota and was able to use my leadership skills, experience, and knowledge to connect, impact and promote NAFCC mission in my state, especially during Minnesota Family Childcare conference 2023. Being a State Representative of the NAFCC will help me to continue prioritizing work directly with family childcare educators, state and local organizations, groups, and stakeholders as well as creating connections.

I also have created training about the benefits of NAFCC accreditation and am passionate about promoting NAFCC accreditation in my state and nationally. I want to use this opportunity to help shape family childcare policy and activities in our state and nationally.

I have a positive attitude that always embraces professionalism and experiences working with a variety of different perspectives, cultures, and varieties of professional commitment. I constantly improve my knowledge about using social media and different web-based tools to communicate with others, I have many blooming and nurturing relationships with family child care educators in Minnesota and across the USA and I am proficient in writing.

I understand that supporting and listening to the needs and concerns of family childcare educators and other stakeholder groups is very important as well as giving feedback back to NAFCC for better serving the needs of the field.

I am ready to serve as the brand ambassador for NAFCC and promote all aspects of NAFCC services to the field. Supporting state and local Family Childcare Associations within my state would be my priority as well as continuing participation in meetings, presentations and training about NAFCC and accreditation as well as supporting and shaping family child care policies and working together with family childcare educators , advocates and leaders on promoting Power of Family Child Care .

Sheryl Hutzenbiler
Montanta

I am the owner of Munchkin Land, a group childcare, in Billings Montana. I have been in the childcare field for over 25 years and operated a group facility for 17 of those years. I participate in our states QRIS program at a Level 5 and have re-accredited in June of 2023.

I have my associate degree in early childhood education, completed the Apprenticeship Program which I am now a mentor for, and my program serves as a sponsor program for apprentices. I am a Professional Development Specialist II in my state. I have been a leader in my state by advocating for positive change in my state and at the federal level. I have supported families in their advocacy for themselves and the childhood profession.

I have been a member of the NAEYC since 2014 and now serve on their Montana Affiliate’s Executive Board as Treasurer for my 1st term and the lead for the Accreditation Interest Group. I have been Montana’s State Representative for NAFCC since October 2021.
I participated in NAFCC Leaders Shaping Leaders in 2021, with a final project of creating the Montana Family Childcare Network which went live in October 2022. Through the network we offer a NAFCC accreditation cohort, mentorship program, and an annual conference.

I have supported other NAFCC state representatives by offering what is happening in our state and sharing legislative wins. State representatives have taken this information back to their states to support positive change within their family childcare profession.

I am looking forward to serving a second term as Montana’s NAFCC State Representative.

April Middleton
Arkansas

I have strategically designed and implemented an early childhood enrichment preschool. Over the last three years, I have earned the Six Stars level of the Better Beginnings Program and am a Nationally Accredited Family Childcare provider. The preschool is maxed out with 16 children and currently has 36 additional children on a waiting list spanning over the next three years. I have 20 years of experience in early childhood education, a master’s degree in education, and am a National Board-Certified Teacher.
I have a vision for the future of family childcare that includes increased support, resources, and recognition for providers. I am committed to working collaboratively with other board members to turn this vision into reality. I possess a deep understanding of the challenges and issues facing family childcare providers today. This knowledge equips me to make informed decisions and recommendations on behalf of our community. I am passionate about advocating for the rights and needs of family childcare providers. I believe that by serving on the board, I can use my strong communication skills to effectively interact with board members. I will represent our interests and work towards positive change and improvements. I will ensure that our voices are heard, and our concerns are addressed.

Overall, I believe that my in-depth experience, passion, and dedication make me an ideal candidate for the NAFCC State Representative for Arkansas. I am committed to advocating for the interests of family childcare providers and working towards a brighter future for our industry.

Myeisa Miller
South Carolina

My name is My’Eisa Miller and I am from Kingstree, South Carolina. I am the CEO/Owner of Miller’s Learn N’ Play Daycare here in Kingstree. I hold an Associate’s degree in Liberal Studies, Bachelor’s degree in Disaster and Emergency Management, Master’s degree in Business Administration, and I’m currently completing my Master’s degree in Education.

I started my career in the public safety field as a Communications Chief with Williamsburg County E-911 Department. During the COVID-19 pandemic I saw an increase need for child care services that carted to local first responders due to the hours that they worked many struggled to find quality childcare services. This motivated me to transition from public safety into the childcare industry and start my own childcare business. I opened Miller’s Learn N’ Play Daycare in May of 2021. Since becoming a family childcare provider I have been an advocate for all family childcare providers in South Carolina.

I am a member of Leaders Shaping Leaders Cohort 2023 with NAFCC and I’m also apart of South Carolina Resource and Referral a Community of Practice Cohort. It’s through these organizations and programs that I am able to support and advocate for family childcare providers throughout the state of South Carolina. I know first hand the important role that family child care providers play within their communities. It my sincere goal to further promote, progress, and improve family childcare for providers and families that they serve.

Tiffany Skaggs
Iowa

I spent quite a few years on the board of the Iowa Family Child Care Association, 3 years at the end as the vice president. I was involved in the merger of IFCCA to a chapter of the Iowa Association for the Education of Young Children. During the merger I became the family child care chapter representative on the board. Through that work, which I attribute to the power of saying yes, I also became the president of the family child care chapter. We recently restructured the board and I applied to be a Member at Large. I’ve worked hard overseeing the new family child care chapter professional engagement group.

What I’m most proud of though is the relationships I’ve created with the providers across the state. During my 2 years on the board and as chapter president I sent handwritten cards to all of our fcc members for the winter holidays and thank you cards for provider appreciation day. I had many providers reach out thanking me for helping them to feel seen and heard through my position. That, to me, is success.

Tessie Ragan
California

Ms. Tessie is a Large Family Childcare Educator located in Rosamond CA. She has been an in home educator in Germany, Maryland and California. She has been a an educator since 2008 and her current program has been operating since 2012.

She is proud advocate of family child care and believes in the educators that have chosen this path for their career wholeheartedly. She is the Family Childcare committee chair with CAAEYC a member of a national commission on professionalism in ece and works to uplift the voices of those in the field. She believe that we are the experts in this field and we deserve to be respected and heard.

Maria Amado
Connecticut

I am currently part of the governance team of my city network in Hartford where I promote the importance of continuous improvements in the quality of the educational environment.

There are many events that I am proud of, such as:

• Received the award as educator of the year 2023 from NAFCC where I am recognized for having met the highest quality standards in my program and being a pioneer in leading and founding a community of Hartford Family Child Care Educators.
• Having been part of the negotiations promoting NAFCC Accreditation, the increase in subsidy rates for accredited and non-accredited educators in the CSEA -SEIU 2001 committee.

My experience began when the doors were closed for continuous professional development, and we began to organize ourselves as a group and currently, we are a community that is increasing registered members whose network is made up of child care educators where we share our needs, interactive and reflective workshops, our achievements and share information based on our work environment.

Representing my state in the NAFCC is to advocate and raise the quality of our programs, I intend to strengthen connections with the institutions and organizations in my state to have the same approach, which is how we help in the membership and accreditation process, which Accreditation is within the reach of all educators, and what tools are available to continue strengthening and maintaining a quality program.

At the end of my first term, I want to achieve a law where FCC educators have access to affordable health insurance and continue supporting and strengthening the NAFCC accreditation and the association’s mission.

Leadership for me is being a support, a voice in the face of needs, motivating my colleagues about the importance of being leaders in our work, families and community. My leadership style is to always speak the truth and tell it when it is time, be innovative, and connect with different institutions and organizations whose vision is mine too.

Bernadette Fumbanks
Virginia

Owner and operator of the Montessori-based America’s Hope Daycare And Preschool Daycare in Spotsylvania, VA.
She has previously served for two years in the role of state representative, collaborating with national stakeholders in support of family childcare educators and advocating in the state of Virginia.