NAEYCNEWS developmentally appropriate practice, equity, and inclusion. NAEYC’ s early learning standards, position statements, and emphasis on play-based, child-centered learning have shaped how I approach teaching and leadership.
You’ ve been in the early childhood education field for several years, and you’ ve served in a variety of roles. What are some of the challenges you see?
One of the biggest issues is funding. I’ m very passionate about STEAM [ science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics ], but how can I get the necessary resources to the educators and children in our centers? The school system recently got a grant, but it was for K – 12 only. My former supervisor advocated for pre-K and 3-K to be included in this initiative. We were able to purchase a wind tunnel for aerodynamics activities, and we also bought hydroponic gardens. The children now grow fruits and vegetables that are shared with our families.
We continue to hear about federal cuts. But these children are our future! How can we cut from our future?
Photographs: courtesy of Kiri Laurelle Davis Copyright © 2026 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. See permissions and reprints online at NAEYC. org / resources / permissions.
60 Young Children
Summer 2026